NATO ramps up Arctic drills as Russia and China expand regional influence

From Greenland's icy shores to Norway's fjords, NATO is flexing its military muscle. Will these massive exercises deter rivals in the High North?

, and Administrator

2026 May 4 . 5:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows an old map of the Arctic with a compass on it. The paper has text written on it,... — The image shows an old map of the Arctic with a compass on it. The paper has text written on it, likely providing further information about the map.

NATO ramps up Arctic drills as Russia and China expand regional influence

NATO forces have stepped up military exercises in the Arctic region amid rising tensions. Recent drills in Greenland and upcoming large-scale manoeuvres in Norway aim to strengthen collective security. The moves come as Russia and China increase their presence in the area. From January 15 to 17, Arctic Endurance drills took place in Greenland. Troops from Germany, France, the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden participated. The exercises included a joint amphibious landing by British special forces, the U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Special Operations Forces. The Dutch Navy’s Johan de Witt and the French Navy’s Alizé—operated by the Fusiliers Marins—also conducted manoeuvres.

Another major exercise, Cold Response, is set for March 9 to 19 in Norway. Around 25,000 troops will take part, with 11,800 deployed across Norway and the rest operating at sea, in the air, and in Finland. The drills will test equipment and refine Arctic warfare tactics.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has now announced a new initiative called Arctic Sentry. The programme seeks to boost security in the Arctic and the High North. Officials cite Russia’s growing military activity and China’s increasing interest in the region as key concerns. The exercises and Arctic Sentry initiative signal a stronger NATO focus on the High North. Cold Response 2026 will be one of the largest Arctic drills in recent years. The alliance aims to ensure readiness in an area of growing strategic importance.