Reuters: NATO To Strengthen Military Presence In The Arctic

• 10.02.2026, 1:06

Due to Russian and Chinese activity.

NATO is set to launch Operation Arctic Sentry ("Arctic Sentry") in the near future, aimed at increasing surveillance and improving the alliance's military assets in the Arctic, Reuters citing three European diplomats, a military officer and a source familiar with the situation.

"The launch of the Arctic Sentry mission could take place as early as this week when alliance defense ministers meet in Brussels," the publication said.

It is expected that military exercises will take place in the region. Air and sea patrols, including the use of drones, may be strengthened. The main focus will be on optimizing the alliance's existing resources in the region, the sources said.

A NATO spokesman said in an email to the agency that "the mission will be part of efforts to strengthen deterrence and defense in the wake of Russian activity and China's growing interest in the Arctic."

The agency said NATO began planning a new mission in the Arctic following talks in Davos between U.S. President Donald Trump and alliance Secretary General Mark Rutte. Discussions on the future of Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, helped reduce tensions that arose over Trump's statements about the strategic importance of the island for the US.

According to the agency's sources, a final decision on the format of the mission has not yet been made. U.S. Air Force General Alexus Hrynkiewicz, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander, said the process was in its final stages and a key briefing was due in the coming days.