The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) is a [[British Overseas Territory (BOT)]] situated in the central Indian Ocean. Unlike other British territories, it has no permanent civilian population or conventional economy. Key features: - Location: Central Indian Ocean - Main island: Diego Garcia - No civilian population - No commercial economy Primary use: - Military purposes * US Naval Support Facility * Joint [[United Kingdom (UK)]]-[[United States of America (USA)]] military base * Strategic military location Historical context: - Created: 1965 - Former population relocated - Subject of ongoing disputes: * Mauritius sovereignty claims * Former inhabitants' right of return * International legal challenges The territory is unique among British Overseas Territories as it functions primarily as a military facility rather than a civilian jurisdiction.