The Arctic is witnessing a dramatic shift as military preparedness takes center stage amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia and China eyeing the region as both strategic territory and rich resource grounds. This renewed focus isn’t just about showcasing military might; it’s also about the practical necessities of defending territory and securing sea routes.
Recent military exercises, such as Arctic Forge 2025, highlight the urgency of these developments. Beginning on February 17, 2025, this biennial exercise involves 40 members of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade Group of the Canadian Army, working alongside 850 Finnish and American military personnel at Sodankyla, Finland. Arctic Forge 2025 is structured to bolster the Arctic combat capabilities of both American and Canadian armed forces. “This exercise is primarily about strategic deterrence and NATO’s northern flank defense,” stated Lieutenant-General Michael C. Wright, Commander of the Canadian Army. This collaboration signifies not just military friendship but also shared goals of enhancing defense capabilities against potential aggressors.
The geographical importance of the Arctic cannot be understated, especially as nations begin to glimpse the potential of the Northwest Passage and Northern Sea Route for shipping and resource extraction. With the prospect of reduced shipping times between Asia and Europe, both China and Russia are eager to assert control over these northern corridors. The reality today is vastly different compared to the Cold War era. Back then, the Soviet Union loomed as the primary threat, whereas China under Mao Zedong was not seen as the formidable challenge it is now. Fast forward to the present, and both countries are leveraging their resources to expand influence across the Arctic.
Meanwhile, the United States has raised concerns about Canada’s military readiness, particularly after the Cold War infrastructure—the DEW Line—was largely decommissioned. The DEW Line was constructed to detect Soviet bombers entering North America, yet much of it remains unused today. Instead, it has been replaced by the North Warning System, which has not seen significant upgrades or enhancements. Canada faces criticism for the lack of action and investment to improve its northern defenses. While Canadian authorities assure improvements to NORAD capabilities, meaningful steps are yet to be observed.
Reflecting on the exercise Arctic Forge 2025, Colonel Kristopher M. Reeves, the Commander of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade Group, confirmed, “Our soldiers have the know-how, but we must master the Arctic environment to maintain our excellence.” Indeed, Arctic survival and combat training are pivotal for maintaining tactical superiority.
The participation of approximately 330 American soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division and the 10th Mountain Division during the exercise demonstrates the commitment shared among NATO allies to deter aggression and respond effectively should the need arise. General Christopher Donahue, U.S. Army Europe and Africa Commander, emphasized the importance of such exercises. He noted, “Exercises like this validate how tactical readiness translates to strategic relevance for joint employment.” This is not just about practicing maneuvers; it concerns the underlying narrative of who controls the Arctic and its resources.
With the Arctic becoming increasingly militarized, the longstanding strategic interest of the U.S. and its allies faces new complications. The partnership between Russia and China, described as one of “unlimited friendship,” raises eyebrows. Their joint aspirations for the Arctic could have significant ramifications not just regionally but globally. The potential for collaborating on military and commercial exploitation is disquieting and indicates the need for heightened cooperation among NATO allies, particularly as decisions about the Arctic’s future are made.
Even with powerful players involved, there remains the possibility of miscalculation or errors. The sobering thought of Russia and China seamlessly executing plans to reshape the Arctic governance framework requires watchful oversight. Canada's recent sovereignty arrangements with its territories like Nunavut, rich with resources and strategic significance yet sparsely populated, could create additional vulnerabilities. Just as the U.S. keeps tabs on Chinese influence at the Panama Canal, similar scrutiny is necessary over the Northwest Passage.
Canada’s indigenous populations, such as those in Nunavut, may present both challenges and opportunities for governance strategies. The growing engagement from China with semi-autonomous regions poses unique interactions, where resource interests and local rights intersect. While the Canadian military remains vigilant, exercises like Arctic Forge bolster the readiness and interoperability necessary among allies to navigate these complex geopolitical waters.
The stakes have never been higher. The world watches as military forces strengthen their presence and capabilities within the Arctic. With fluctuated threats and ambitions from both China and Russia, securing this formidable geopolitical terrain will demand cohesion and strategic foresight among affected nations.
The challenges of Arctic geopolitics and military preparedness are far from simple, requiring not just collaboration but adaptability. Nations must acknowledge the shifting paradigm and invest accordingly to safeguard their interests as the ice melts and new routes beckon.