China and Russia’s growing military partnership in the Arctic challenges U.S. dominance and raises concerns about future security in the region.
Rising Collaboration Between China and Russia
The Arctic region is witnessing unprecedented military cooperation between China and Russia, posing significant challenges to U.S. interests and regional stability. Both nations have engaged in joint naval exercises, coast guard patrols, and strategic bomber air training in the Arctic in recent years. This collaboration reached a new milestone in October 2024 when China and Russia conducted their first joint Arctic maritime patrol.
Russia and China have been steadily increasing their military and economic presence in the Arctic. What should the U.S. do to keep the Arctic safe and stable? https://t.co/srhg0pIpzn pic.twitter.com/GLJmOqLJjq
— CSIS (@CSIS) January 20, 2020
The increasing military presence of these two powers in the Arctic has not gone unnoticed by U.S. officials. In July 2024, Russian and Chinese bombers entered Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone, prompting interception by U.S. and Canadian fighters. This incident underscores the growing boldness of Sino-Russian military operations in the region and the potential threats they pose to North American security.
China's Xuelong-2 on a mission in Antarctica. PLA Daily, 12Dec,p4. Arctic is emerging as one of most dynamic arenas of China-Russia cooperation. Linking Arctic to Ukraine could show real European leverage. Nod from Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd might entice Kremlin into peace talks. pic.twitter.com/N1NRFYLs1S
— Lyle Goldstein (@lylegoldstein) December 12, 2024
U.S. Strategic Response
In response to these developments, the U.S. Department of Defense has updated its Arctic Strategy, recognizing the region as a strategic battleground due to Russian-Chinese collaboration. The strategy focuses on maintaining regional stability and security while enhancing domain awareness, engaging with allies and partners, and conducting military exercises as deterrents.
“We’re seeing Russia continue to have an immense focus on the Arctic region, and it’s part of their … security calculus, vis-a-vis the U.S. and NATO” – Iris A. Ferguson.
The U.S. strategy also acknowledges the need to understand and counter China’s long-term intentions in the Arctic. Despite not being an Arctic nation, China has been actively seeking influence through its Polar Silk Road initiative and joint military exercises with Russia. This has raised concerns about China’s growing regional strategic interests and potential impact on U.S. national security.
NATO’s Role in Arctic Security
As the Arctic becomes a hotspot for resources and strategic competition, NATO is increasingly seen as an ideal partner for Arctic burden-sharing. This partnership could allow the U.S. to focus more on the Indo-Pacific region while ensuring the Arctic remains secure. NATO’s existing infrastructure and expertise in Arctic warfare, particularly among Nordic countries, make it well-suited for this role.
“The deliberate education and development of Arctic-minded leaders alongside collaboration with allies and partners to foster enhanced cold weather war-fighting capabilities across the spectrum.” – NATO
However, NATO faces capability gaps in the Arctic, including a need for more ice-capable vessels and anti-access/area denial capabilities. To address these challenges, there are proposals for a Nordic-led Combined Joint Expeditionary Force within NATO to strengthen Arctic defense. The U.S. is encouraged to increase Arctic-specific training and cooperation with NATO allies to enhance overall Arctic readiness.
Climate Change and Strategic Implications
The impacts of climate change further complicate the strategic landscape of the Arctic. New opportunities and challenges emerge as the region warms four times faster than the global average. Melting ice opens up previously inaccessible areas, potentially increasing competition for resources and control over new shipping routes.
“Climate change is still a factor in the region, where the region warms at some four times the rate of the rest of the world” – Iris A. Ferguson.
These environmental changes are accelerating the potential for competitive activities in the Arctic, making it crucial for the U.S. and its allies to maintain a strong presence and vigilance. As the strategic environment continues to evolve, increased U.S. attention and resources will be necessary to safeguard national interests and maintain stability in this critical area.
