The U.S. Coast Guard released a new strategy document outlining plans to address emerging threats in the Arctic, in response to attempts by Russia and to China expand regional influence.
The service’s latest Arctic Strategic Outlook focuses on international partnerships, coordination with U.S. agencies and rapid technological advancements to enhance its capability to operate in the Arctic.
“This Arctic Strategic Outlook reaffirms our commitment to American leadership in the region through partnership, unity of effort and continuous innovation,†said Admiral Karl Schultz, commandant of the Coast Guard.Â
The updated strategy comes amid the growing competition in the region as Russia and China look to take advantage of the melting sea ice that exposed coastal borders and new, shorter transportation routes.
The Coast Guard calls for sufficient heavy icebreaking vessels, high-latitude communications and expanded maritime domain awareness as well as adequate personnel and logistics resources to respond to potential conflicts in the Arctic. The service also intends to lead exercises with Arctic communities, industry, governments and organizations to improve preparedness.
