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Arctic Partnerships Vital to Regional, National Security
by David Vergun and Terri Moon Cronk, DOD News
May 12, 2022
Alaska plays a central role in the U.S.
integrated deterrence strategy regarding the defense of North
America, Air Force Gen. Glen D. VanHerck said.
VanHerck, the
commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S.
Northern Command, held a virtual Pentagon press briefing from
Anchorage, Alaska on May 5, 2022.
The greatest advantage the U.S. has is a
strong network of alliances and partnerships, unlike Russia and
China, which do not, he said.
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The USS Pasadena breaks through the ice in the Beaufort Sea
on March 12, 2022 during Ice Exercise, an exercise that
allows the Navy to assess operational readiness in the
Arctic. (Image created by USA Patriotism! from U.S. Navy
photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Trey Hutcheson.)
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For instance, the Arctic Security Forces
Roundtable and the Arctic Symposium are both taking place this week.
These forums will further discuss the ways
that ally, and partner nations can cooperate in this region, he
said.
Navy Adm. Charles "Chas" A. Richard, the commander of
U.S. Strategic Command, also spoke.
"We both see the Arctic
as a key strategic region," Richard said. "And we know how valuable
it is to us and our Arctic allies. Northcom is the [Defense
Department's] Arctic advocate, but I want you to know they are not
alone. U.S. forces, including my strategic forces, routinely operate
in this region, as do our Arctic allies. It's important for us to be
on the field, because strategic threats emanate from the Arctic; and
the evolving threats require continuing attention. You need to look
no further than Russia strengthening its forces in the Arctic, [and]
the [People's Republic of China's] Polar Silk Road is an example of
the things that we need to address."
The Polar Silk Road
refers to shipping routes connecting three major economic centers –
North America, East Asia and Western Europe – through the Arctic
Circle.
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A map highlights the Arctic Circle, a key region for
maintaining U.S. national security. (U.S. Department of
Defense image)
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"Strategic deterrence, my responsibility,
is the foundation of our national defense policy and integrated
deterrence. It enables every U.S. military operation around the
world, including in the Arctic," the admiral said.
"I want
to emphasize the stable, rules-based international order in the
Arctic as well as elsewhere, because it benefits the United States.
It benefits all Arctic community nations. It is what's best for
stability, security and overall well-being. [Our] allies and
partners are our greatest strategic advantage, and we are theirs. …
And I'm grateful for the work being done to continually strengthen
Arctic security," he added.
U.S. Department
of Defense
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