Lectures of Opportunity: "Arctic Security: Norway’s Role and America’s Perspective"

Arctic Security: Norway’s Role and America’s Perspective

We are entering a new age of strategic importance in the Arctic, complete with new threats to the Arctic and its people, and to all of our interests in that region. The United States envisions the Arctic region as one that is free of conflict, where nations act responsibly, and where economic and energy resources are developed in a sustainable, transparent manner that also respects the environment and the interests and cultures of indigenous peoples. Norway – a key NATO ally and fellow Arctic nation – has a critical role to play in maintaining a rules-based order and security in the Arctic region. While the United States and NATO may have shifted attention away from this region in the aftermath of the Cold War, Norway never stopped watching and listening. Today, it remains the guardian of NATO’s northern flank, providing eyes and ears on Russian and other activity in the region. Norway is taking steps to enhance its own and Allied capabilities in the region – investing in new equipment, hosting U.S. Marines and other key Allied forces for cold weather training, and supporting significant NATO and other allied and partner exercises.

About this Lecture

Lectures of Opportunity offer U.S. Naval War College (NWC) students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to learn more about national and international socio-political subjects that may be of relevance to the NWC community.