The New Arctic Arms Race. Why the Arctic Is Becoming the Next Great Strategic Competition Zone
Defence Unlimited International For decades, the Arctic existed largely outside the center of global geopolitical competition. Harsh weather, extreme distances, and limited accessibility made the region one of the world's last strategic frontiers. Today, that reality is rapidly changing. Climate change, emerging shipping routes, vast natural resources, advanced military technologies, and renewed great power competition have transformed the Arctic into one of the most important geopolitical theaters of the 21st century. The Arctic is no longer simply an environmental issue. It is becoming a national security issue, an economic issue, and increasingly, a military issue. The world is witnessing the emergence of a new Arctic arms race . The Arctic's Strategic Geography The Arctic occupies a unique position on the globe. The shortest air and missile routes between North America, Europe, and Asia pass directly over the Arctic region. During the Cold War, the Arctic served as a crit...