DoD Releases Arctic Strategy in Midst of Changing Environment

By Kristen Fletcher Faculty Associate-Research, Energy Academic Group

In July, the Department of Defense (DoD) released its new Arctic Strategy, highlighting the significant changes in the physical and geostrategic environment in the region. To strengthen U.S. abilities and better manage risk in the region, the strategy calls for three E’s: Enhance U.S. domain awareness and regional capabilities; Engage with allies, partners and stakeholders; and Exercise tailored presence.

There are eight Arctic nations: U.S., Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Russia. In addition, China is increasing its presence both through partnering with Arctic nations and claiming itself as a “near Arctic state,” even though that claim has no basis in international law. Nevertheless, China operates three icebreakers in the region and has conducted operations with the Russian Navy. This Russia-China partnership is a significant driver in the DoD Arctic Strategy.

Environmental changes in the region are affecting movement of state and private vessels and the drive to exploit natural resources. Research shows that from 1979-2021, major portions of the Arctic Ocean were warming at least four times as fast as the global average. As a result, sea ice coverage is less over time, permafrost is thawing, and coastal erosion is faster than anticipated. The strategy notes that the Arctic may experience its first ice-free summer within the next decade and “reduction in sea ice due to climate change means chokepoints such as the Bering Strait... are becoming more navigable and more economically and militarily significant.”

The strategy lays out the U.S. approach of “monitor and respond” which requires maritime domain awareness, capabilities in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), and cooperation with allies and partners; this will involve improved communications technology and data coverage. In addition, the U.S. will advance joint exercises to increase the Joint Force’s ability to “respond rapidly and effectively to threats in the region.” Awareness and focus on contested areas in the Arctic as well as an understanding of the different operating environments across the region will help prioritize partnerships and exercises.

As the strategy notes, it aligns with and nests under the 2022 National Security Strategy, 2022 National Defense Strategy, and 2022 National Strategy for the Arctic Region.

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