Wed Sep 18 01:31:37 UTC 2024: ## NATO Eyes New Air Operations Center in Arctic Amid Russian Activity

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – The recent addition of Sweden and Finland to NATO is creating new opportunities for the alliance to enhance its presence in the Arctic, a region experiencing increasing Russian activity. U.S. Air Forces Europe and NATO Allied Air Command General James Hecker has proposed a new combined air operations center (CAOC) in the Arctic, an idea supported in principle by U.S. European Command head General Chris Cavoli.

The proposed CAOC, which still needs approval from NATO leadership, would leverage the unique expertise of Arctic nations like Sweden, Finland, and Norway. The location remains undetermined. “We’re going to exploit that close relationship between the Arctic nations and the knowledge that you bring to make that happen,” Hecker told representatives from the Swedish and Norwegian air forces.

The need for increased NATO presence in the Arctic is underscored by frequent Russian incursions into NATO airspace. According to Major General Øivind Gunnerud, chief of the Royal Norwegian Air Force, Russian aircraft are intercepted by Norwegian forces “once or twice per week” on average, with similar activity occurring with Russian ships.

Arctic operations present unique challenges, including icing, slippery runways, and extended periods of darkness during the winter months. The U.S. Air Force has been experimenting with drones, high-altitude balloons, and other unmanned systems to improve situational awareness in the region. However, Arctic conditions pose challenges even for unmanned systems, as many rely on solar power for operation.

If approved, the Arctic CAOC would join existing centers in Germany and Spain, further solidifying NATO’s commitment to the region and its strategic importance amidst growing Russian activity.

Read More