Danish Arctic leader anticipates increased militarization in the High North following Ukraine conflict

MILAN Denmarks top Arctic military official has warned that the region may face heightened tensions, anticipating that Russia will shift its focus to the High North once the war in Ukraine concludes.

I anticipate that after the conflict in Ukraine ends, Russia will concentrate on strengthening its military presence in the Arctic, said Maj. Gen. Sren Andersen, leader of Denmarks Joint Arctic Command, in an interview with the Danish Armed Forces magazine Honnr.

The Arctic has become a strategic hotspot, largely due to climate change reducing sea ice, which opens new routes for shipping and access to resources. Denmark has been increasing its military capabilities to safeguard Greenland, an autonomous territory under its jurisdiction.

In June, Denmark sent a frigate and two EH101 Merlin helicopters to Greenland for the first time, part of broader military exercises and reinforcement efforts. Our forces have demonstrated the ability to deploy from Denmark to Greenland quickly for example, the Merlin rescue helicopters can reach Nuuk from Karup Air Base in 13 hours. They have been vital for our exercises there, Andersen said.

Operating in the Arctic is extremely challenging. Harsh weather conditions complicate flying and navigation, and limited infrastructure restricts refueling and emergency landings. In some cases, travel is only possible by dogsled or snowmobile. Andersen emphasized that allied forces need to train in Greenland to gain experience in these extreme conditions.

Another area of concern is Svalbard, the remote Norwegian archipelago between the mainland and the North Pole. A report by the Arctic Institute, released Nov. 27, highlighted Svalbards sensitive legal status and strategic location, which could make it a potential flashpoint if Russia chooses to contest the region. The Svalbard Treaty prohibits major military construction, although limited activity is permitted, such as Norways coast guard presence.

The report noted that Russia has concentrated significant military resources nearby. Just 260 kilometers from Svalbard, the Nagurskoye air base is Russias northernmost military facility. Since 2015, it has been upgraded to enhance its operational capabilities, the report stated. This included extending the runway in 2020 to accommodate MiG-31 and Su-34 fighter jets and Il-76 transport planes.

Previously a seasonal installation, Nagurskoye has now become a year-round operational base, occasionally hosting long-range bombers and serving as a staging ground for military exercises.

Author: Benjamin Carter