US Air Force Sets Out Strategy for Arctic Region

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brad Steward secures an aircraft panel after the arrival of an F-16 at Kallax Air Base in Luleå, Sweden, on May 16, 2019 in preparation for Arctic Challenge Exercise 2019. U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Edward Snyder

For the first time, the Air Force has issued an official Arctic strategy, underscoring the region’s growing strategic significance.

“Historically, the Arctic, like space, was characterized as a predominantly peaceful domain,” said Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett on July 21, as the new strategy was announced. “This is changing with expanded maritime access, newly discovered resources, and competing sovereign interests.”