ABD, has been under threat for years by military officials and policy makers Allocate more resources to the Arctic is under pressure. However, recently Increasing cooperation between China and Russia, this edition is a new one to the extent of urgency carried. The Pentagon, Strategic competition in the Arctic is intensifying and emphasizes that the region has turned into a geopolitical struggle area.
Strategic Competition in the Arctic Region
China's Goals in the Region
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Arctic and Global Resilience Iris A. Ferguson, China's Arctic is a power and economic resource area Beijing has stated that it sees itself as a long-term partner in the region through scientific research projects and logistics initiatives. economic and strategic asset aims to create.
- Scientific Research: China aims not only to gain economic gains through scientific projects in the region, but also to strengthen its territorial claims.
- Military Activities: China is increasing its presence in the Arctic by holding regular military exercises with Russia.
Russia's Arctic Policy
Russia continues to increase its military and economic presence in the Arctic despite the challenges created by the war in Ukraine. Russian and Chinese armies, Bering Straitand this cooperation caused the US to reconsider its Arctic strategy.
Climate Change and New Dynamics in the Arctic
Another factor that increases geopolitical tensions in the region is climate changeThe rapid melting of glaciers due to global warming has created previously inaccessible areas in the Arctic. transportation and settlement routes opened.
- Temperature Increase: Since 1979, temperatures in the Arctic have been rising four times faster than the rest of the world.
- Collapse of Glaciers: In the summer of 2020, 40% of Canada’s Milne Ice Shelf collapsed into the Arctic Ocean, highlighting the extent of environmental change in the region.
US Arctic Strategy for 2024
The US Department of Defense's new Arctic strategy details measures to combat strategic competition in the region. The Pentagon, together with its allies and partners, A constant presence in the Arctic and international waterways in the region to ensure stability aims.
Strategic Goals
- Multinational Exercises: Increase joint exercises with allies.
- Routine Trainings: Establishment of regular training programs in Arctic conditions.
- Permanent Existence: Permanent military presence to guarantee the defense of the region.
Strong Cooperation with Allies
Pentagon in the Arctic seven like-minded allies aims to increase regional deterrence by acting together with the United States. Northern European countries stand out among these allies. Ferguson said that cooperation with allies is a will strengthen its geostrategic cohesion He stressed.
US Response: New Approaches Towards China and Russia
Cooperation Between China and Russia
China and Russia’s cooperation in the Arctic is causing the US to reshape its policies in the region. The two countries have the potential to change the balance in the Arctic through partnerships in many areas, from military exercises to coast guard patrols.
Military and Economic Moves of the USA
- Military Activities: The United States is planning new measures to combat increased military activity off the coast of Alaska.
- Economic Investments: The development of new projects to increase the economic presence in the region is on the agenda.
Tough Competition in the Arctic
As the Arctic becomes an increasingly accessible region, the strategic competition between the US, China and Russia intensifies day by day. The Pentagon Arctic Strategy 2024stands out as a critical step towards strengthening the US presence in the region and increasing cooperation with its allies.
The Arctic has become the center of not only environmental change but also geopolitical struggle, so it seems inevitable that the United States, together with its allies, will adopt a more proactive approach.
