Why the Arctic could be Russia’s next target
NATO members already conduct regular Arctic warfare exercises, and may yet need to place greater emphasis on threats in the region. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The war in Ukraine has shown that the Russia's territorial ambitions can be threat to all of Europe. As the Arctic is a strategic region both from a military and economic perspective, it might yet be Moscow’s next target.
Indeed, President Vladimir Putin’s armed forces have more assets in the Arctic than NATO countries and have been upgrading and re-equipping their bases in the area in the last few years, which is a warning signal.
The Kremlin also revised its Arctic policy in February emphasising the need to prioritise the country’s interests in the region. All mentions of the Arctic Council, which is
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens
The UK has recently deployed a Type 45 destroyer to Cyprus and has bolstered its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks with supporting air power to protect neighbouring countries’ air defences.
-
White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production
Intended to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran, efforts to increase the production of weapons and ammunition could expose long-standing weaknesses in the US defence industrial base.
-
India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict
The latest escalation between Iran and Israel could shape New Delhi’s next-generation shield as India deepens cooperation with Israel on missile defence and drone production.
-
Is the US magazine of air defence interceptors deep enough to sustain a long campaign against Iran?
The Pentagon spent a considerable number of THAAD and SM-3 rounds to defend against Iranian missiles in 2025 and has not fully replenished its reserves.
-
New Zealand buys tri-service uncrewed kit from Syos Aerospace
As uncrewed technology continues to play an increasingly central role in modern military activities, New Zealand’s recent acquisitions point towards its the force’s focus on cost-effective capability.