Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has firmly stated that the country has no interest in hosting any foreign military bases or assets. He emphasized that the nation is happy to remain free of military installations and plans to keep it that way. This announcement came ahead of a visit by U.S. Southern Command Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey, who is touring the Eastern Caribbean to strengthen regional security cooperation.

While Antigua and Barbuda rejects hosting military assets, nearby Grenada is currently reviewing a U.S. request to install a temporary radar system and deploy technical personnel at its Maurice Bishop International Airport. Grenada’s government is carefully evaluating the proposal with input from various ministries and agencies to ensure it aligns with national sovereignty, public safety, and economic interests, especially protecting its tourism sector.

The contrasting approaches highlight how Caribbean nations are weighing the benefits and risks of closer military cooperation with the U.S. Antigua and Barbuda prefers to stay clear of military involvement, while Grenada is cautiously considering options. Both nations are committed to keeping the public informed as talks progress.