Country Profile: Wake Island
Wake Island is a remote atoll located in the North Pacific Ocean, approximately two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands. It consists of three low coral islands built on an underwater volcano, with no permanent inhabitants; personnel are present only to maintain the airfield and weather station. Governed as an unincorporated territory of the United States, Wake Island is primarily used for military purposes and serves as a strategic location for missile defense testing.
Geography
Wake Island is situated in Oceania and covers an area of just 7 square kilometers, with its land primarily consisting of coral islands. The atoll is characterized by a tropical climate and a central lagoon, which was formed from a former volcanic crater. Due to its strategic location, Wake Island has been important for various military and transportation operations throughout its history.
- 7 sq km: Total area of Wake Island.
- 19.3 km: Coastline length of the atoll.
- 0 km: No land boundaries exist.
- 8 m: Highest point on the islands.
People and Society
Wake Island has no permanent inhabitants; the only personnel present are those who operate the airfield and weather station. This lack of a resident population has shaped its social structure and governance, making it an entirely operational site rather than a residential community.
- 0: Permanent inhabitants on Wake Island.
Economy
Wake Island does not have a traditional economy due to the absence of permanent residents; its primary functions are related to military and logistical operations.
Government
Wake Island is an unincorporated, unorganized territory of the United States, administered by the US Department of the Interior. The legal framework follows US common law, and the island does not possess its own citizenship, as it falls under US jurisdiction.
- none: Year of independence; the island is a US territory.
- 11th: US Air Force conducts activities on the island.
Military and Security
The defense of Wake Island is the responsibility of the United States, and it plays a critical role as a trans-Pacific refueling stop for military aircraft. The island also supports missile defense testing activities, managed by the US Air Force.
- 2025: Management and military activities conducted by the US Air Force.
Energy
Wake Island boasts 100% electrification, ensuring that all facilities are powered. The island primarily consumes refined petroleum for its operations.
- 100%: Electrification rate of the island (2021).
- 8,000 bbl/day: Refinement of petroleum consumption (2023).
Transportation
Wake Island has one airport, which is crucial for military and logistical support. The island also features a small port that accommodates oil terminals.
- 1: Operational airport scheduled for 2025.
- 1: Total port presence on Wake Island (2024).
Communications
The island is equipped with broadcasting capabilities, primarily provided by the US Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. This allows for satellite radio and television broadcasts, ensuring communication for personnel stationed there.
- 2018: Year when the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service began broadcasting.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 0 | No permanent inhabitants |
| Area | 7 sq km | Total area |
| Elevation (highest point) | 8 m | Highest point on the island |
| Electricity access | 100% | Electrification rate (2021) |
| Refined petroleum consumption | 8,000 bbl/day | Petroleum usage (2023) |
| Coastline | 19.3 km | Length of coastline |
| Airports | 1 | Scheduled for 2025 |
| Ports | 1 | Total ports presence (2024) |
| Military responsibility | US | Managed by the US Air Force |
| Carbon emissions | 1.214 million metric tonnes | Total CO2 emissions (2023 est.) |
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