The Arctic Debrief: Communication cable sabotaged at Norwegian Arctic Air Force Base

In this edition:

• Communication cable sabotaged at Norwegian Arctic Air Force Base
• Russia increases focus on Arctic amongst Murmansk drone strikes
• US to invest $323 million in upgrades to US Arctic base in Greenland

Latest Developments

Communication cable sabotaged at Norwegian Arctic Air Force Base

A critical communications cable used by the Norwegian Air Force was cut at the Evenes Air Station in April. Norwegian authorities have released documents which indicate that the incident is being handled as deliberate sabotage.

Although there are no suspects, the case is being treated as an ongoing investigation. Other acts of suspected sabotage have been reported throughout Europe over the summer as NATO allies have heightened security and remain on high alert for similar incidents.

The Air Force base, which is located in the country's Arctic region, houses Norway's F-35 fighter jets and the P8 Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. It is one of Norway's most strategically important air force bases.

Russia increases focus on Arctic amongst Murmansk drone strikes

Russia's northern region of Murmansk saw a series of unmanned aerial drone strikes targeting various infrastructure, such as airfields and oil refineries. This marks the first time that the region was targeted by Ukrainian forces since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Russian president Vladimir Putin assigned close ally, Nikolai Patrushev, to lead a newly established maritime advisory board the same week. Patrushev will over see the country's development of the Russian Navy, securing national interests in the Arctic, and developing and supporting the country's maritime activities.

During a meeting on Russia's national interests, Patrushev criticized the NATO alliance for increasing its military presence in the Arctic and refusing to cooperate with Russia on regional matters. He said that due to this situation Russia must strengthen its military presence in the Arctic and improve its Arctic capabilities in all capacities.

US to invest $323 million in upgrades to US Arctic base in Greenland

The US government has contracted Serco Inc. to manage upgrades at the Pituffik Space Base used by the 821st Space Base Group. The work will focus on strengthening the power infrastructure of the base to ensure the facility can operate 24/7.

This is necessary as the US Department of Defense wants the facility operational at all times as it will be crucial in maintaining the country's Arctic security.

The base can house F-35 fighter jets and other US Air Force aircraft thanks to its 10,000-foot runway. It also has a deep-water port and functions as a missile warning system. The base was established by the US Air Force in 1943 during World War II.

Arctic infrastructure has recently become the focus for Canada and US, as the two nations pour funds into modernizing and constructing the military bases located throughout their northern territory. Additionally, they are increasing defence budgets to account for more spending on vehicles and equipment capable of functioning in the harsh environment.