U.S. Forces Practice Defense Operations in Alaska Amid Rising Tensions with Russia and China

In the remote and frigid regions of Alaska, American military forces are actively engaging in comprehensive training exercises on land, sea, and air. The exercises involve rapidly deploying rocket systems to western Alaska, launching F-35s and F-16s to address simulated threats, and deploying U.S. and Canadian naval vessels in the Bering Sea.

Operation Tundra Merlin

These maneuvers are part of the ongoing U.S. military operation known as Tundra Merlin. The exercises are designed to demonstrate that American and allied forces can rapidly mobilize and protect the northern approaches to the homeland, even in Alaska’s challenging Arctic environment. These events take place within a context of changing global security concerns, particularly due to the influence of Russia and China.

“I think what’s changed is primarily two things,” said Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command. “One is that the melting sea ice has made the Arctic more accessible. And we’re seeing increased activity both commercially and militarily in the Arctic, particularly during the summer months.”

The Pentagon’s 2024 Arctic Strategy reflects a similar stance, stressing the need for heightened U.S. presence, exercises, and military readiness in the Arctic. This strategy aims to address increased accessibility due to melting ice and growing cooperation between Russia and China.

Alaska’s Strategic Importance

Alaska holds strategic significance as it serves as a central hub for homeland defense. It is positioned between the Arctic and Pacific, providing a platform for projecting U.S. military power towards the Indo-Pacific region. The proximity of the Russian and American mainlands across the Bering Strait adds to the importance of this area.

Alaska is home to key air bases, early-warning systems, missile-defense infrastructure, and tens of thousands of military personnel. The Alaskan Command comprises over 22,000 active-duty personnel and approximately 4,700 Guard and Reserve members.

Pointing to the fifth-generation fighters based in Alaska, Davis noted, “U.S. forces can project from the Arctic to almost anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere in about 10 hours of flight time.”

Strengthening Combat Capabilities

Operation Tundra Merlin is strategized to convert Alaska’s geographical advantage into tangible combat prowess. Davis described the operation as a series of military options, or “plays,” that can deter adversaries or be activated in response to aggressive actions.

Recently, U.S. and Canadian forces executed a rapid deployment of a U.S. Army HIMARS rocket system and an AN/TPQ-53 radar into western Alaska. These forces synchronized with F-35s, F-16s, and a KC-135 tanker during the operation. This demonstrated the ability of U.S. forces to integrate various capabilities swiftly in Alaska’s remote settings.

Addressing Environmental Challenges

Conducting military operations in Alaska presents challenges due to extreme cold and vast distances. Equipment and personnel must function under Arctic conditions, necessitating specialized preparation and training.

Davis emphasizes the importance of conditioning and outfitting for sub-zero operations. Service members need specialized gear and procedures to function effectively despite cold-weather hazards.

Monitoring Adversarial Activity

Amid increasing activities by Russia and China, U.S. defense planners remain vigilant. In July 2024, NORAD intercepted Russian and Chinese bombers in Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone. While not an immediate threat, it highlighted the level of cooperation that the U.S. monitors closely.

Davis affirmed that Alaska is well-prepared for foreseeable threats. However, should escalation appear likely, additional forces and resources would be requested.

Ultimately, Operation Tundra Merlin aims to ensure that U.S. military forces are ready to defend the homeland along its northern edge and respond decisively to aggression.

Reporter Efrat (Effie) Lachter, with over 15 years of reporting experience, provides an extensive background on global affairs. She covers conflict, human rights, and political accountability for Fox News Digital. Her work spans conflict zones worldwide, offering critical insights into major world events.