CENTER FOR ARCTIC
SECURITY AND RESILIENCE
The Center for Arctic Security and Resilience serves as the lead for strategic and operational Arctic-related national security and related endeavors.
CASR’s subject matter experts contribute to the field’s knowledge and scholarly base
through research, consultation, and education to meet the challenging issues shaping
the Circumpolar North and Arctic Region.
![arctic climate summit](/casr/images/arctic-climate-summit.png)
Arctic Climate Summit
Leaders in partnership for the future of the Arctic Date: August 20-21, 2024 Location: University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Margaret Murie Building, 2090 Koyukuk Drive
![U.S. northern military competition: closing Arctic operational capabilities gaps](/casr/images/ua-northern-military-competition-closing-arctic-operational-capabilities-gaps.jpeg)
U.S. northern military competition: closing Arctic operational capabilities gaps
Before February 2022, the Russian Federation continued to make notable progress on its Arctic strategic development priorities throughout all sectors. However, Moscow’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine not only stopped, but also degraded much of Russia’s Arctic military progress.
![NATO COE Logo](/casr/images/coe-cwo-logo-21.jpg)
Cold Weather Operations Conference 2023
The aim of the conference is to highlight current and future geopolitical, military strategic and environmental trends that have implications for the development of Cold Weather Operations as part of Multi-Domain Operations.
![NATO Defense Event - 2023](/casr/images/nato-defence-event.png)
Security and Defence of NATO's Northern Flank
The conference is part of the Arctic Defense research project at the Norwegian Defence University College and hosted at the campus of UiT in Breivika, Tromsø. Presentations will include findings from a forthcoming research anthology on NATO's northern flank published in the autumn of 2023
![IF12](/casr/images/IF12.jpg)
Innovation Foundry 12
SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM’s Directorate of Science and Technology (S&T) Futures, Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM), and the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI), will host the twelfth Innovation Foundry (IF12) Event in Oslo, Norway.
![GCSP](/casr/images/gcsp.jpg)
High North Talks
Closed discussion on Arctic issues as well as development of a new initiative with select participants
![USARC 115th Annual Meeting](/casr/images/USARC.jpg)
USARC 115th Annual Meeting
The US Arctic Research Commission will hold its 115th meeting in person at the University of Alaska Fairbanks on October 25–26, 2022, where the CASR director was invited to offer insights based on a UN-highlighted article involving CASR members Alec Bennett and Troy Bouffard
![SOCNORTH Arctic Symposium](/casr/images/SOCNORTH-Arctic-Symposium-v2.jpg)
SOCNORTH Arctic Symposium
CASR was honored to participate in the inaugural event with members Dr. James Morton, Dr. Ryan Burke, and Troy Bouffard
![Nautical Institute Conference](/casr/images/nautical-institute-2022.jpg)
Maritime Arctic: Changing Opportunities and Challenges
Arctic Maritime Security – Civil and Military Nexus: Panel - Moderator: Troy Bouffard, Speakers: Becca Pincus , Whitney Lackenbauer, Adam Lajeunesse. This international two-and-a-half-day conference will consist of informative presentations, interactive Q&A sessions, and panel discussions, bringing together key Canadian and international stakeholders in the maritime industry, environmental organizations, governmental transport authorities, coast guards, consultants, and technology providers. Social and professional networking opportunities will be embedded in the program.
![ASFR Logo](/casr/images/asfr-logo.jpg)
Arctic Security Forces Roundtable
From 3-5 May 2022, the Arctic Security Forces Roundtable (ASFR) was held in Fairbanks, Alaska. Established in 2010 and co-chaired by U.S. European Command (Head of Delegation - Brigadier General Edward “Hertz” Vaughan) and the Norwegian Defence Staff (Head of Delegation - Commodore Solveig Krey), ASFR was conducted in the United States for the first time. U.S. Northern Command, one of six DOD geographic combatant commands, was selected to officially host this year’s event where the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Eielson Air Force base were selected as the hosting locations, led by Rear Admiral Dan “Undra” Cheever, Director of Strategies, Policies, and Plans at USNORTHCOM J5.
![Dartmouth College Event](/casr/images/dartmouth-2022.jpg)
The Future of Russia in the Arctic
An event hosted by the Institute for Arctic Studies in the John Sloan DIckey Center for International Understanding at Dartmouth College In conversation with Troy Bouffard and Pavel Sulyandziga, moderated by Melody Burkins.
![Arctic SOF](/casr/images/Arctic-SOF-Event-Graphic800px.jpg)
North American Arctic Special Operations - Roundtable Event
Invite-only event in support of the DND-funded MINDS Arctic SOF project. Project hosted by CASR with this event being hosted by NAADSN.
![AAE-Mar 22](/casr/images/arctic-academic-etalks-march-31-800px.jpg)
Arctic Academic eTalks - 31 March 2022
The March Arctic Academic eTalks features Sara Olsvig, Henrik Pederson and Dan Torweihe in a discussion about "Defending North America, United States - Kingdom of Denmark - Greenland Defense and Security Relationship"
![March eTalks 2022](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-Mar-2022-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 30 March 2022
The March Arctic eTalks features Brigadier General Shawn R. Satterfield, Commander, Special Operations Command North for a presentation and discussion on "Special Operations in the North American Arctic and participation in ARCTIC EDGE 2022."
![Arctic eTalks - Feb 2022](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-Feb-2022-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 20 February 2022
The February Arctic eTalks features Ambassador Petteri Vuorimäki, Finland Ambassador for the Arctic and Antarctic on "Finnish Diplomacy and Arctic Cooperation."
![Arctic eTalks - January 2022](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-Jan-2022-800px-v2.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 20 January 2022
The January Arctic eTalks features Rear Admiral Martin La Cour-Andersen, Commander of the Joint Arctic Command of the Danish Defence on "The Kingdom of Denmark in the Arctic: Perspectives from the Danish Joint Arctic Command."
![Dec eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-December-2021-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 16 December 2021
The December Arctic eTalks features Christina Henriksen, President of the Saami Council, a Permanent Participant of the Arctic Council on "Arctic Security and the Saami Council - indigenous Perspectives and Interests."
![November 2021 eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-November-2021-700px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 17 November 2021
The November Arctic eTalks features James P. DeHart, U.S. Coordinator for the Arctic Region, United States Department of State to discuss "U.S. Arctic Interests: Managing Security Through Diplomacy."
![C-SPAN](/casr/images/panel-700px.jpg)
Norwich University Military Writers' Symposium - 03 November 2021
Panel presentation and discussion. Theme: Global Conflict or Cooperation? Evolving Arctic Security, featuring Dr. Whitney Lackenbauer, Dr. James Kraska, and Mr. Sam Alexander, moderated by Troy Bouffard and broadcast live on C-SPAN.
![Oct eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-October-2021-600px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 21 October 2021
The October Arctic eTalks features Ambassador Michael Mann, who will be discussing the newly released (13 Oct) EU Arctic strategy as well as the role and interests of the Arctic for the European Union.
![GCMC](/casr/images/GCMC.jpg)
European Security Seminar - North: Cooperation and Confrontation in the High North
The George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies recently hosted the week-long seminar, European Security Seminar-North: “Cooperation or Confrontation?” The event was co-facilitated by Troy Bouffard, UAF homeland security and emergency management instructor and director of the UAF Center for Arctic Security and Resilience.
![Arctic Academic eTalks](/casr/images/arctic-academic-etalks-september-17-600px.jpg)
Arctic Academic eTalks - 17 September 2021
The upcoming Arctic Academic eTalks session features Dr. Camilla T. N. Sørensen and Dr. Marc Lanteigne in a discussion about "China: Information and Influence"
![Arctic eTalks - Sep 2021](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-September-2021-600px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 16 September 2021
The September 2021 Arctic eTalks features Lieutenant General Daivd A. Krumm, the highest ranking military official in Alaska, to discuss the various roles and responsibilities of Arctic Security involving ALCOM, Eleventh Air Force, and Alaskan NORAD Region.
![Aug Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-August-2021-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 19 August 2021
This event will provide strategic and operational insights from the Commander of U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area.
![USARAK LDP](/casr/images/USARAK%20LPD%20-%20July%202021.jpg)
USARAK Leader Professional Development (LPD) - 15 July 2021
LPDs are a commander's program involving focused, thematic professional development events for subordinate commanders, command teams and primary staff. CASR is proud to support United States Army Alaska for this event and wish the commander great success on his next assignment.
![Arctic Academic eTalks - July 2021](/casr/images/aae-july-2021.jpg)
Arctic Academic eTalks - 14 July 2021
The Arctic Academic eTalks are complimentary events for the main series. This month features Dr. Andrea Charron and Dr. Joshua Tallis in a presentation and discussion about "Geopolitics and Military Diplomacy in the Arctic"
![July eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-July-2021-800px-v3.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 22 July 2021
This event will provide exceptional insights from the commander of Joint Task Force North, Canadian Armed Forces. Several colleagues from other Canadian commands, like CJOC, will help support the discussion led by BGen Godbout.
![GEG](/casr/images/geg.jpg)
Russian Chairmanship of the Arctic Council
On July 1st, the GEG Weekly Seminar will discuss the Russian chairmanship of the Arctic Council which takes place in a context of great economic ambitions and geopolitical tensions in the region. The discussion will be based on a working paper written by Emilie Canova, Camille Escudé Joffres, Joaquim Gaignard, Pauline Pic, Léa Tourdot and Florian Vidal
![June 2021 Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-June-2021-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 17 June 2021
This event will provide exceptional insights about Norway and its High North security perspectives, led by Mr. Svein Efjestad, the long-time policy director for the Norwegian Ministry of Defence. Mr. Efjestad is also the Chair of the Coast Guard Council as well as a member of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO).
![May Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/Arctic-eTalks-May-2021-500px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 21 May 2021
This month features a presentation and discussion by Niklas Granholm, Deputy Director of Studies at FOI, the Swedish Defence Research Agency, Division for Defence Analysis. Following the presentation, the discussion should be lively given the turnover of the Arctic Council Chairmanship to Russia on 20 May!
![Arctic Academic eTalks - May 2021](/casr/images/arctic-academic-etalks-may-2021.jpg)
Arctic Academic eTalks - 07 May 2021
New complimentary series to the Arctic eTalks with a focus on academic participants. The event will provide a 30-minute presentation followed by an hour Q&A discussion. The topic for this first session involves a dialogue on the upcoming transfer of the Arctic Council Chairmanship to Russia.
![CIPS](/casr/images/cips-apr-2021.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 23 April 2021
The objective of this conference is to shed light on the strategy and intentions of Russia in relation to its upcoming chairmanship of the Arctic Council. Additionally, panelists will analyse what other Arctic states (Canada, Nordic countries, United States) and people (Indigenous groups) have to expect from the Russian chairmanship and what are the policy debates that these states are likely to face in the next two years
![Arctic eTalks - April 2021](/casr/images/Arcrtic-eTalks-Apr-2021-800px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 23 April 2021
This month features a presentation and discussion by Janne Kuusela, the Director of Policy for the Ministry of Defence - Finland. In addition to authoritative perspectives involving Arctic security, Mr. Kuuselsa will also provide professional insights concerning the much anticipated upcoming version of the Finland Arctic Strategy.
![FIAS Presentation](/casr/images/Fulbright-Presentation-cover-image-600px.jpg)
Fulbright International Arctic Seminar, March 2021
Draft article presentation at the “Fulbright International Arctic Seminar” Moscow, Russia. 19-20 March 2021, online. Jointly Organized by: U.S. Embassy Moscow, the Fulbright Program in Russia, and the Institute of International Education, Moscow.
![NAAF](/casr/images/Event-Poster-600px%20v3.jpg)
North American Arctic Forum - 24 and 26 March 2021
A student forum on the North American Arctic co-hosted with Norwich University Peace and War Center, in cooperation with the Royal Military College (RMC), Collège militaire royal de Saint-Jean (CMR) and University of Alaska Fairbanks, Center for Arctic Security and Resilience (CASR).
![March Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/Mar-2021-900px.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 19 March 2021
This month features a presentation and discussion by Commodore James A. Clarke, Deputy Director of J5, NORAD/USNORTHCOM. Arctic eTalks is a monthly forum for open discussion (non-attribution) on key issues affecting the Circumpolar Arctic for academics, defense and security professionals, and military leaders from Canada, Finland, Iceland, Kingdom of Denmark (Greenland and Faroe Islands), Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The series is hosted by "The Watch" command magazine, USNORTHCOM, USEUCOM, USINDOPACOM and CASR.
![Feb Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/etalks-feb-2021.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 19 February 2021
This month features a presentation and discussion by Sara Olsvig, former Member of Parliament for Denmark. Arctic eTalks is a monthly forum for open discussion (non-attribution) on key issues affecting the Circumpolar Arctic for academics, defense and security professionals, and military leaders from Canada, Finland, Iceland, Kingdom of Denmark (Greenland and Faroe Islands), Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The series is hosted by "The Watch" command magazine, USNORTHCOM, USEUCOM, and CASR.
![Jan Arctic eTalks](/casr/images/etalks-Jan-2021-v2.jpg)
Arctic eTalks - 22 January 2021
This month featured a presentation and discussion by Friðrik Jónsson, the Senior Arctic Official for Iceland. Arctic eTalks is a monthly forum for open discussion (non-attribution) on key issues affecting the Circumpolar Arctic for academics, defense and security professionals, and military leaders from Canada, Finland, Iceland, Kingdom of Denmark (Greenland and Faroe Islands), Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The series is hosted by "The Watch" command magazine, USNORTHCOM, USEUCOM, and CASR.
![Example image 3](/casr/images/jfmm.png)
Homeland Defense Academic Symposium - 02 Dec 2020
The inaugural Homeland Defense Academic Symposium was held virtually from Dec. 1-3, 2020. It featured briefings, panel discussions, moderated paper presentations, keynote speakers, and a tabletop exercise focused on homeland defense issues at the unclassified level. To assist in this transformation, the 2020 Homeland Defense Academic Symposium enlists the assistance of academia to seek new ways to shape the security environment and enhance the United States and Canadian defense capabilities.
![NADSAA](/casr/images/ADSO-ES-23-Dec.png)
Arctic Defense and Security Orientation (ADSO): Executive Session - 23 Dec 2020
The Arctic Defense and Security Orientation program provides the primary instruction to the Department of Defense for the purposes of baselining Arctic regional knowledge, with special emaphasis on strategic and operational context. This executive session was conducted exclusively for the Commander and senior leaders of NORAD-USNORTHCOM.
![Russia Upgrades Key Arctic Military Base With Expanded Runway](/casr/images/august-28-hayes-pennington.jpg)
The Alaska Territorial Guard as a Solution to Arctic Capacity and Domain Awareness By LTC Jeff Hayes, US Army Dr. John Pennington
AbstractDespite the rapidly growing importance of the Arctic in economic, defense, and environmental sectors, the United States, though an Arctic nation, lacks meaningful defense capacity in the Arctic region. This article provides a brief history of the critical role that Alaska Natives played in the Arctic during World War II, first as the Alaska Territorial Guard and later as formally incorporated units of the Alaska Army National Guard, and how these units addressed in their time the same capability gaps facing the United States today. However, Army reorganization during the Global War on Terror has had the unintended effect of making National Guard service nearly impossible for this critical population. The article further proposes that the Canadian Ranger program could serve as a model for restoring military service as a possibility for Alaska Natives while providing a cost-effective means of addressing domain awareness and other shortfalls confronting the United States.
![Russia Upgrades Key Arctic Military Base With Expanded Runway](/casr/images/Russia Upgrades key-arctic-military-base-with-expanded-runway.jpeg)
Russia Upgrades Key Arctic Military Base With Expanded Runway
Even with its military focused on the invasion of Ukraine, Russia continues to refurbish and expand its military infrastructure in the Arctic region. Its latest efforts come in the shape of a newly expanded and paved runway at the Temp Air Base at the western shore of Kotelny Island, part of the New Siberian Islands. The runway joins an existing military base located a few kilometers inland. The Severny Klever station, also known as Northern Trefoil due to its distinct cloverleaf shape, opened to much publicity in 2013.
![painting of polar bear in the arctic](/casr/images/china-russia-us-arctic-north-pole-strategy.jpeg)
China's Expanding Arctic Ambitions Challenge the U.S. and NATO
As the Arctic summer melts the polar bear tracks on the sea ice around Norway's Spitsbergen Island, dozens of Chinese scientists are arriving at a facility guarded by a very different kind of white creature—stone lions from Shanghai.
![Watch webpage](/casr/images/casr-expert%20opinion.jpeg)
Expert: Scientific cooperation still necessary with Russia
With the ongoing effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, collaborative multinational scientific projects remain vital to the region, necessitating a resumed cooperation between Western Arctic nations and Russia, despite the latter’s increasingly authoritarian and expansionist behavior. While such normalized relations in specialized fields may be unlikely in the near term, it is imperative that the U.S. and its allies try. Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska, outlined this argument in a May 31, 2024, op-ed for the High North News, a Norwegian newspaper.
![view from a ship outlooking onto the ocean](/casr/images/casr-july.jpeg)
Why Chinese warships near Alaska signal growing naval projection – and a message to Nato
CBSM Dean Cameron Carlson and CASR Director Troy Bouffard share their thoughts with the South China Morning Post. Sightings of Chinese military vessels off the waters of Alaska by the US coastguard earlier this month were the latest sign of growing military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow in the Arctic and the northern Pacific, and a move that analysts said was intended to “counter” the strategic agenda led by Washington and Nato in the region.
![ship on ocean](/casr/images/ship-on-ocean.webp)
No. 30 | Strategic Competition and the Case for UNCLOS
The 2022 US National Security Strategy names the People’s Republic of China, as a pacing challenge, the top threat to the US domestic and global interests. The ability of the United States to manage its priority national security interests abroad requires access and influence. One means of achieving global access and global influence is through membership and leadership in international organizations and instruments.
![Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaking](/casr/images/OK_1.png)
Caught Between Scylla and Charybdis in The Arctic
The Arctic is more than just a geographic region of the world. It represents the area from which the baseline of climate change, associated extreme weather events, and phenomena can be best understood. It informs and advises the planet’s governance and civilization.
![Troy-Bouffard-NPR](/casr/images/norwich%20university%20-%20casr.png)
U.S. Northern Military Competition: Closing Arctic Operational Capabilities Gaps
CASR's Troy J. Bouffard was featured on Norwich University's blog: Prior to February 2022, the Russian Federation continued to make notable progress on its Arctic strategic development priorities throughout all sectors. However, Moscow’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine not only stopped but actually degraded much of Russia’s Arctic military progress. Western cooperation rapidly paused or excluded Russian participation in many activities and organizations, including security-related activities such as the Arctic Coast Guard Forum. Gone were any hopes of potential Arctic military dialogue and cooperation between Russia and the West. Yet, it became apparent that Russia’s actions could lead to important opportunities for the West regarding issues involving the competitive continuum.
![Troy-Bouffard-NPR](/casr/images/troy-npr.jpg)
Over 8,000 soldiers took part in an international military exercise in Alaska
NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Troy Bouffard at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, about the possibility of military confrontations in the Arctic Circle.
![NATO Book 2023](/casr/images/nato-book.jpg)
Recent Publication
Contributing author and CASR director Troy Bouffard offers different insights involving the importance of Russia's Northern Sea Route as part of the Kremlin's national security priorities.
![ADN](/casr/images/adn-aug-2023.jpg)
Recent Media
"In recent years, China has been allowed to participate incredibly in Russia's largest annual military exercises," he said. "Each year there's a little bit more participation, a little bit change in how they do partner and work together militarily. So this maritime effort now is also not surprising."
![KUAC](/casr/images/kuac-jun23.jpg)
Recent Media
“So, nothing too new there,” he said in an interview Tuesday. “We definitely have adversaries who are probably increasing their efforts to gain knowledge and Intel.” Bouffard agrees with Sullivan that Alaska has a lot of military assets of great interest to U.S. adversaries.
![Bloomberg](/casr/images/bloomberg-jun23.jpg)
Recent Media
“Today’s formula for what is an advanced military and what leads to success is: Being the best at precision-enabled, combined-arms warfare.” In short, being a credible force in the Arctic means, at the very least, operating there at the same proficiency expected anywhere else. On that front, “the Army is starting from scratch,” Bouffard says.
![High North News](/casr/images/hnnmay2023.jpg)
Recent Media
“The multiple issues causing delays in the Polar Security Cutter program are interconnected, and each problem can exacerbate the others, creating and compounding a complex web of challenges that collectively impede progress, which invariably increases costs and further strains budgets.” “Altogether, I think this helps explain the frustration and what has become a vicious cycle of delays”, Bouffard concludes.
![Fox](/casr/images/fox-norad.jpg)
Recent Media
Live interview conducted through Seattle to nationwide discussing the implications of the recent events.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/at-anr.jpg)
Recent Media
“These have been really actually ideal incidents for us as a nation,” he said. “This is a real-world example of the challenges that we have stated since day one,” including domain awareness in the region.
![AlHurra](/casr/images/alhurra.jpg)
Recent Media
Live interview on AlHurra Tonight 'Alaska Series', Middle East Broadcasting Networks of the U.S. Agency for Global Media
![Sydney Morning Herald - Arctic Article](/casr/images/sydney.jpg)
Recent Media
“And you need that science to get policy,” says Troy Bouffard, director of the Alaska-based Centre for Arctic Security and Resilience and a former Council delegate. “It’s heartbreaking. You had NATO states working with Russia on things like emergency response, environmental protection, in ways that don’t happen anywhere else. Indigenous nations at the table too, with a voice, with power. We can continue the work. But what does it mean without Russia?”
![VOA](/casr/images/voa.jpg)
Recent Media
Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, also pointed out to VOA that China's economic behavior and goals in the Arctic have largely failed, except in areas dominated by Russia.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/atnss.jpg)
Recent Media
“This is unprecedented — we haven’t seen mention of the Arctic in the national security strategy like this,” said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience and faculty at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. It’s a “a significant step toward recognizing that the Arctic has not just growing importance but enduring importance for the United States,” said Mike Sfraga, chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission.
![Arctic Today - Oct 2022](/casr/images/atoct22v2.jpg)
Recent Media
“It’s one thing to just say that we’re all friends and allies in the Arctic-7,” he said, referring to the Arctic nations except for Russia. “But more importantly, it’s critical that we… demonstrate this through exercises, through cooperation, through the continued efforts of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard-like agencies” to work on civil security and scientific cooperation efforts.
![JIPA 5(5) - Arctic Security](/casr/images/jipa800px.jpg)
Recent Publication
In volume 5 issue 5 of the Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs, we return to the theme of Arctic security – a topic rendered more pressing in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s continued aggressive behavior in the region and beyond. This issue is a collaborative effort with the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Center for Arctic Security and Resilience. Guest editors Lt Col Richard D. Newton, PhD, USAF, retired; MSG Troy J. Bouffard, MA, USA, retired; and LTC Cameron D. Carlson, PhD, USA, retired.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/atsep22.jpg)
Recent Media
“With the new Russian naval doctrine in effect and China working to develop blue-water navy capabilities, it is increasingly necessary to provide U.S. and allied presence in the maritime domain,” said Troy Bouffard.
![HNN](/casr/images/hnnsep22.jpg)
Recent Media
The region’s strategic importance means that it benefits from priority allocation of resources, explains Bouffard from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He continues: “The Russian Arctic military is somewhat filtered from the systemic failures in Ukraine as a result of relatively new hardware and personnel advancements.”
![North American Arctic SOF](/casr/images/NA-Arctic-SoF-FB-v2.jpg)
Recent Publication
This project aims to address how SOF is currently postured to address the emerging security needs, challenges, and threats to, through, and in the North American Arctic in the 21st Century.
![Domestic Preparednes](/casr/images/domprep.jpg)
Recent Publication
Editorial article by CASR Dep. Director, John Pennington: "FEMA has decisively led the federal effort toward establishing solid and long-lasting government-to-government relationships with tribes. The current administration, led by Administrator Deanne Criswell, has furthered that effort by establishing a 2022-2026 Strategic Plan that mirrors many of the shared values and commonalities observed between diverse tribal communities – values that tribal emergency management has been focusing on for years. In addition, FEMA released its first-ever Tribal National Strategy on August 18, 2022."
![RCI - Eye on the Arctic](/casr/images/rci-aug2022.jpg)
Recent Media
“Appointing an ambassador-at-large signals that the Arctic is growing in importance for the United States and comes at a time where the stability and level of cooperation that we have enjoyed in the Arctic has certainly changed,” Troy Bouffard, the director at the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, told Eye on the Arctic in a phone interview. “We’re likely to see a lot more competition now in all sectors, including geopolitical.”
![Breaking Defense](/casr/images/breakingdefense.jpg)
Recent Media
But Bouffard and two analysts from the Center for Naval Analyses told Breaking Defense that Russia’s shipbuilding ambitions, particularly the language concerning the country’s plans to build aircraft carriers, immediately raised eyebrows.
![The Hill](/casr/images/hill-burke.jpg)
Recent Publication
Dr. Ryan Burke, CASR scholar and Director of Research at the Homeland Defense Institute - USAFA / USNORTHCOM - presents a compelling argument for a NOAA LNO position in support of Arctic national security interests.
![ANKASAM](/casr/images/ankasam.jpg)
Recent Media
Ankara Center for Crisis and Policy Studies (ANKASAM) presents the views it received from Troy J. Bouffard, the Director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience (CASR), the University of Alaska Fairbanks, in order to evaluate Russia’s new Naval Doctrine and its effects on global geopolitics.
![Sputnik](/casr/images/sputnik.jpg)
Recent Media
"Hopefully, fragmented Arctic scientific efforts can continue to make crucial progress until collaborative opportunities with Russia are possible again. There's no field of study concerning the Arctic that wouldn't benefit from scientific cooperation with Russia, including defense and security studies," Bouffard said, adding that "the loss from mutual collaboration in the Arctic Council alone probably can't be measured."
![Nature](/casr/images/nature.jpg)
Recent Media
Previous article from CASR members cited along with comments from notable UAF researchers.
![Globe and Mail](/casr/images/gmjune2022.jpg)
Recent Media
Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience in Fairbanks, Alaska, said he expects Canada’s NORAD announcement on missile detection represents “an intent” from Ottawa to explore missile defence with the United States. “A threat can come from different approaches now – not just the Arctic,” he said.
![Ahsarq News](/casr/images/alsharqjune2022.jpg)
Recent Media
Live news interview with Asharq News in Dubai concerning the announcement from MoD Canada on NORAD.
![Arctic Today - 08 June 2022](/casr/images/atjune22.jpg)
Recent Media
“At this point, most seem ready for Norway to take over the chairmanship next year,” said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. But it’s difficult to know how the transition will occur and whether it would involve Russia’s cooperation, he said.
![Challenges](/casr/images/challenges-article.jpg)
Recent Publication
The Arctic is an area that is experiencing rapid change, increased development, and exploratory interest, and proposed solutions have the potential to produce new risks to both natural and human systems. This article examines potential security and ethical considerations of geoengineering solutions in the Arctic from the perspectives of securitization, consequentialism, and risk governance approaches, and argues that proactive and preemptive frameworks at the international level, and especially the application of risk governance approaches, will be needed to prevent or limit negative consequences resulting from geoengineering efforts.
![Asharq News](/casr/images/asharq-may-2022.jpg)
Recent Media
Live news interview with Asharq News in Dubai concerning the impacts fo Ukraine on Arctic region stability and sanctions against Putin.
![High North News Article](/casr/images/hnn-may2022.jpg)
Recent Media
"As an operational HQs, 11th Airborne Division will be able to effectively organize and develop a high-level tactical staff with a defined Arctic operational purpose", Bouffard explains to High North News.
![NYT](/casr/images/nyt.png)
Recent Media
“We are stuck with a pretty tense situation there,” said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center of Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “Either we acquiesce to Russia, to their extreme control of surface waters, or we elevate or escalate the issue.”
![BBC](/casr/images/bbc-mar-2022.jpg)
Recent Media
According to Mr Bouffard, the Arctic Council gave Russia an outlet through which it could showcase its concerns and interests in the region, and work together on issues ranging from indigenous communities to security and environmental worries. "But now we've witnessed Russia throw away its chairmanship for its Ukrainian goals, and it's very disturbing," he added.
![E&E News Screenshot](/casr/images/eenewsmar2022.jpg)
Recent Media
It’s unclear if council activities can proceed without Russia. When the council was established nearly 30 years ago, “no such kind of language existed to guide these circumstances,” Bouffard said.
![Cover Page Graphic - Arctic Academic eTalks - Special Session March 2022](/casr/images/event-graphic-mar-2022.jpg)
Recent Publication
NAADSN and CASR led a special session following the Joint Statement about the Arctic Council with the key findings captured in this report.
![Dubai Interview](/casr/images/dubia.jpg)
Recent Media
Interview with "ASharq News" channel, an Arabic channel based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Troy Bouffard, Director of CASR concerning Arctic security and current issues.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/atjan2022.jpg)
Recent Media
Putin “is absolutely in a position where he feels he needs to do this,” said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center of Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “He has shifted from a deterrence to a compellence strategy. And he’s creating the leverage he needs to effect change.”
![NORAD Modernization](/casr/images/norad-mod-article.jpg)
Recent Publication
Following a joint statement from the United States and Canada, authors Troy Bouffard and Adam Lajeunesse discuss the purpose and next steps of NORAD modernization.
![Arctic and North](/casr/images/permafrost-ru.jpg)
Recent Publication
Previous permafrost data article translated into Russian and republished in the Northern Arctic Federal University / Северный Арктический федеральный университет (NArFU / САФУ)
![PB](/casr/images/policy-brief-dec-2021-800px.jpg)
Recent Publication
For all the rhetoric and difficulties, NORAD continues to represent a highly effective source of North American defence and security. While challenges both persist and emerge, especially as adversaries project competitive ambitions, the United States and Canada continue to discern and act upon opportunities that balance and magnify their defence equities in continental defence.
![AT](/casr/images/arctic-today-dec-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
“There’s a need at the national level to understand what is the role of the Arctic in homeland defense and our national security interests abroad, and that’s sometimes going to come with a lot more debate and take a long time to reach clarity,” Bouffard said. “Understanding the Arctic in terms of what are the threats and what do we need to do about that is anything but clear.”
![FDNM](/casr/images/fdnm-dec-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
It’s a trend that could bring its own set of problems, said University of Alaska Fairbanks researcher Alec Bennett. That’s because no international framework exists to encourage countries to work together to evaluate and implement scientific solutions.
![AGU Conference Poster](/casr/images/AGU-2021-Geoengineering-800px.jpg)
Recent Publication
Rapid environmental changes throughout the world and in the Arctic are prompting the exploration of geoengineering solutions as one way to slow or mitigate climate change. These methods vary substantially in cost, risk, and reversibility. These solutions also have the potential to generate security and ethical concerns throughout the Arctic, in a region that could both benefit and be negatively impacted by these exploratory efforts. Exploring not only the technical aspects and feasibility but the socio-environmental impacts proactively is critical to avoid escalation of conflicts.
![AY2021](/casr/images/AY2021-800px.jpg)
Recent Publication
In late October 2020, President Vladimir Putin approved the “Strategy for the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation and Ensuring National Security for the Period through 2035.” Although the casual observer might dismiss this document as yet another Arctic strategy recasting old ideas with fresh rhetoric, the importance of the timing and substance of this Russia strategy is not lost on Arctic observers.
![article](/casr/images/sustain-article.jpg)
Recent Publication
The objective of this research, co-authored by CASR member Alec Bennett, was to model current and projected climate conditions pertinent to gardeners and farmers in Alaska. Research commenced with information-sharing between local agriculturalists and climate modelers to determine primary questions, available data, and effective strategies. Four variables were selected: summer season length, growing degree days, temperature of the coldest winter day, and plant hardiness zone.
![Alaska Insight](/casr/images/akinsight.jpg)
Recent Media
Alaska’s Arctic region is opening to increased vessel traffic and global interest. What are the American military’s plans to ensure security? Lori Townsend speaks to Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and Michael Sfraga, chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission.
![Norwich Article](/casr/images/Sam---Norwich-Article.jpg)
Recent Media
Alexander acknowledged the keen focus required to prepare mentally and physically for Special Forces and said he shared these lessons with Norwich cadets at the symposium. “There’s a lot of noise out there,” he said in the joint interview. “A lot of people want your attention and time and will take it if you let them have it. Don’t let them have it for free.”
![WDEV](/casr/images/wdev.jpg)
Recent Media
Live radio interview conducted in connection with the Norwich University Military Writers' Symposium at the Sullivan Museum and History Center. First part of the show, CASR member Sam Alexander is interviewed, and the end of the show, Troy Bouffard is interviewed.
![USNI](/casr/images/usni.jpg)
Recent Media
Troy Bouffard, director of the Arctic Security and Defense Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, said President Vladimir Putin “really changed [Russia’s] approach to international development” and sees the Arctic playing a vital role in Moscow’s return as a great power.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/AT-Chinese-ships.jpg)
Recent Media
“We’re probably starting to frustrate them a little bit, maybe, with the South China Sea issue,” Bouffard said. The Aleutian exercise may be a demonstration of China’s capabilities in light of those U.S. exercises in the South China Sea. “I don’t think they’re trying to provoke a reaction, necessarily, but I think they were sending a clear strategic message,” Bouffard said. “They can also enter our waters under legal norms.”
![ADN Article](/casr/images/ADN.jpg)
Recent Publication
The Arctic represents a key region concerning climate security issues and should be appropriately reflected in primary national guidance. As such, a reformed policy should be published in order to align with whole-of-government responsibilities involving the U.S. Arctic. This article provides essential factors that can contribute to the development of revised strategy.
![KUAC](/casr/images/kuac.jpg)
Recent Media
A University of Alaska Fairbanks analyst says both the Alaskan Command and Alaska Air National Guard have got what it takes to help with the operation, if tapped by the Pentagon. “Their ability to go support the mission right now would be very reasonable, expected – no surprise at all,” says Troy Bouffard, who directs UAF’s Center for Arctic Security and Resilience. “They do this stuff all the time.”
![Storyboard](/casr/images/Storyboard.jpg)
Recent Publication
The Arctic Academic eTalks closed sessions are invite only with select experts who can authoritatively contribute (non-attribution) to the discussion on key Arctic issues.The proceedings from the closed sessions are presented in a Summary Report that is shared with key stakeholders, practitioners, military leaders, and senior government officials in the Circumpolar Arctic region. Please let us know if you are interested in participating and as well your area of expertise at: casr@alaska.edu
![CI](/casr/images/civic.jpg)
Recent Media
Hear a short interview with CASR member and co-principle investigator Alec Bennett on a recent NSF project concerning exploration of Low Power Wide Area LPWA networks of measurement sensors that will expand scientific and technical knowledge crucial for practical applications in planning for climate-change-related threats in cold regions, such as extreme snowfall and flooding and infrastructure damage due to frozen ground thaw. Link to project details here.
![Russian Analytical Digest](/casr/images/RAD269-1.jpg)
Recent Publication
The topic of this issue is Russia and the Arctic. Troy J. Bouffard and P. Whitney Lackenbauer discuss Russia’s 2021–2023 chairmanship of the Arctic Council, positing that Russia is not seeking to revise Arctic governance structures or undermine regional peace; instead, Moscow seeks to define the region in its preferred terms.
![MWI](/casr/images/mwi-burke-carlson.jpg)
Recent Publication
Defense policies and strategies are riddled with deliberate and calculated words—which makes the words used in the recent flurry of service-specific Arctic strategies that much more curious. There is no doubt that a tremendous level of effort went into producing the collection of Arctic strategies we find before us today. There are some wonderful words and thoughtful analyses within each. But for all good words, there are some equally strange ones leaving us to question exactly what they mean and the intent behind them.
![CDA Interview](/casr/images/cda.jpg)
Recent Media
What Do Russia’s Ambitions Mean for the Stability of the Arctic Council? A transcribed interview with the director of CASR and the Conference of Defence Associations (CDA) Institute.
![Summit - Arctic](/casr/images/arctic-today-june-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
Another obstacle will be deep differences over two key — and overlapping — issues, said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks: Russia’s military build-up in the region and its efforts to exert control over the Northern Sea Route, the shipping corridor that runs along most of its Arctic coastline.
![CNA](/casr/images/cna-podcast.jpg)
Recent Media
This time on our Polar Politics occasional series, Josh Tallis sits down with Dr. Cameron Carlson of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Dr. Elizabeth Wishnick of Montclair State University. They discuss the idea of Arctic identities in The Arctic states, how they compare between different nations, and their impact on great power competition in the region.
![Land](/casr/images/land-article-800px.jpg)
Recent Publication
This article explores the global data systems on permafrost, which remain sporadic, rarely updated, and with almost nothing about the subsea permafrost publicly available. The authors suggest that the global permafrost monitoring system should be real time (within technical and reasonable possibility), often updated and with open access to the data (general way of representing data required). Additionally, it will require robust co-ordination in terms of accessibility, funding, and protocols to avoid either duplication and/or information sharing. Following a brief background, this article will offer three supporting themes, (1) the current state of permafrost data, (2) rationale and methods to share data, and (3) implications for global and national interests.
![RCI](/casr/images/rci-blinken.jpg)
Recent Media
And although headlines suggest this new round of tensions could put stress on the Arctic Council’s work, Bouffard disagrees. “The greatest interest for the Arctic states is to filter out these global tensions and focus on the very real challenges facing the Arctic, that maybe not everyone else in the world cares about as much, but that we really feel up here in the North,” he said.
![Dispatch](/casr/images/dispatch.jpg)
Recent Media
“We are an Arctic country, and the strategic long-term concerns of the Arctic—in both Alaska, as well as areas of Canada and Europe where we provide defense—are important to us,” Cameron Carlson, founding director of the Homeland Security and Emergency Management program at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, told The Dispatch. “We are lagging behind. More needs to be done in the Arctic.”
![Russia-Chinese-US Graphic](/casr/images/sino-russo-us.jpg)
Recent Media
“They’re very good at driving a long-term strategy,” said Cameron Carlson, founding director of the Homeland Security and Emergency Management programme at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. “China’s been very astute, whether in Alaska or other parts of the Arctic, very good about inserting themselves.”
![MWI Article](/casr/images/mwi-may-2021.jpg)
Recent Publication
The limits of Arctic stability without collective security management may be reaching an end. Whether by coincidence or because of the lack of an institutional framework, strategic interests and operational posturing are finally approaching dangerous levels. Interests in conducting high-level military discussions involving Arctic security are not new. But as a result of US sanctions against Russia since 2014, military-to-military contact between the United States and Russia has been suspended and defense dialogue is not allowed.
![Polar Journal](/casr/images/polar-journal.jpg)
Recent Publication
In this article, we suggest that the United States should seek more balance between strategic imperatives and operational requirements and activities. This article begins with a discussion of the theory and doctrine addressing the relationship between the operational and strategic levels. We then survey relevant strategic documents from the U.S. government, seeking to find guidance that would inform both the American strategic approach to arctic security and any operational requirements that result from the strategic approach.
![CIMSEC](/casr/images/cimsec.jpg)
Recent Media
Dr. Liz Buchanan rejoins the podcast alongside Troy Bouffard to discuss NATO, NORTHCOM, and NORAD's differing roles in the Arctic and the challenge of establishing an Arctic security institution.
![FDNM 06 April 2021](/casr/images/fdnm-06-april-v2.jpg)
Recent Media
"...when then-U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told the Arctic Council that “Russia is not the only nation making illegitimate claims. The U.S. has a long-contested feud with Canada over sovereign claims through the Northwest Passage.”The statement “caused immediate concern” by Canada and other regional allies, said Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “The comment was nothing dangerous, but it was seen as very unnecessary,” Bouffard said in an interview Monday with the News-Miner.
![Strategic Perspectives](/casr/images/russia-ac-chair-600px.jpg)
Recent Publication
Bouffard, Troy J., and P Whitney Lackenbauer. The Development of the Russian Arctic Council Chairmanship: A Strategic Plan of Preparation and Pursuit. North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (Trent University, Ontario: 30 March 2021). https://www.uaf.edu/casr/publications/research/2021-russia-ac-chair.php.
![KNOM Interview](/casr/images/knom-25-mar-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
Bouffard explains that this trip is meant to be primarily for research and learning. “I hope this does become a pattern for research and for other means and collaborations and learning about the environment and working together because the US Coast Guard and the Canadian Coast Guard have completely different statutory requirements.
![Chapter 12 - On thin Ice](/casr/images/ch12-on-thin-ice-v2.jpg)
Recent Publication
Bouffard, Troy J., and Edward M. Soto. "U.S. Arctic Deepwater Port: Value-Added Capabilities in Support of National Security." Chap. 12 In On Thin Ice? Perspectives on Arctic Security, edited by Duncan Depledge and P. Whitney Lackenbauer. NAADSN Engage Series, 107-15. Peterborough, Ontario: North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN), 2021.
![China-US in Anchorage](/casr/images/china-us-anchorage.jpg)
Recent Media
“the sheer size of the Chinese illicit fishing fleet, we just don’t have enough resources to chase down all of the the criminal activity. The Coast Guard is doing an outstanding job in that regard. They published a new strategy to combat this issue last year, and it definitely kind of steps up the concerns and objectives,” Bouffard said.
![U.S. Arcy Arctic Strategy - RCI](/casr/images/us_army_arctic_rci.jpg)
Recent Media
Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, said the new strategy is an effective and comprehensive consideration of the challenges and opportunities involving land forces operating in the Arctic. “However, there are enormous difficulties to overcome in order to achieve proficiency in the ability to conduct sustained operations as well as contribute to the ultimate measure of military success involving precision enabled, combined arms warfare – something Russia is much further along in terms of capabilities,” Bouffard said.
![Blinken](/casr/images/blinken-rci-600px.jpg)
Recent Media
“This, as a strategic focus and priority, helps to solve other critical issues and serves as an effective vehicle to pursue related U.S.-European partnership goals,” Bouffard said. “The connection to the Arctic includes the North Atlantic and above, where Transatlantic security benefits from an institutional approach to managing issues and Euro-Atlantic interests, versus the Eurasian interests that Putin has been developing and offering for many years as a solution toward a superior civilization over the so-called decadent West.”
![Healy NWP Arctic Today](/casr/images/healy-nwp-at-600px.jpg)
Recent Media
“The Northwest Passage is still not completely surveyed up to today’s standards,” Bouffard said. “When the Healy can go into any of these environments, the crew is just going to learn an enormous amount and experience very real, challenging conditions, especially changing conditions.” It’s important for Coast Guard services to become familiar with how the region is changing. Even if a crew had experience transiting the passage before, Bouffard said, “I’d be willing to bet it wasn’t the same.”
![Healy NWP RCI](/casr/images/healy-nwp-rci-600px.jpg)
Recent Media
“I expect that this was received well by Global Affairs Canada, in both of our coast guards and I hope to see that the transit would be cooperatively and even jointly escorted by the Canadian Coast Guard, as well as the Royal Canadian Navy.” Bouffard said he would love to see the RCN’s newly commissioned Arctic offshore patrol vessel HMCS Harry deWolf accompany Healy during its transit.
![The Watch v3](/casr/images/watchv3med.jpg)
Recent Publications
Bouffard, Troy J., and Cameron D. Carlson. "U.S. View: Emerging Information Environment." The Watch, 2021.
![Freedom of Navigation Article](/casr/images/fonop-big.jpg)
Recent Publications
Bouffard, Troy J. "A Developing Maritime Operational Environment: Forward Presence and Freedom of Navigation in the Arctic." In Strategic Perspectives. Trent University, Ontario: North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN), 2021.
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/arctic-today-10-feb-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
The maritime boundary between the U.S. and Russia in the Bering and Chukchi seas can be difficult to access because of poor weather and seasonal conditions. Both countries have limited resources for responding to incidents — from pollution to illegal fishing — in these waters. The pollution agreement is particularly important given the sensitive nature of the Bering Sea ecosystem, Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at University of Alaska Fairbanks, told ArcticToday...
![RCI - Eye on the Arctic - 07 Jan 2021](/casr/images/rci-07-jan-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
Troy Bouffard, director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, said it was time for the U.S. to deal with Russia’s “excessive” maritime claims off its Arctic coast “one way or the other.” “Either we let them have this, or if we’re not going to, which we’re not, it has to be dealt with,” Bouffard said. “And Russia is not budging on this one.”...
![Arctic Today](/casr/images/arctic-today-20-jan-2021.jpg)
Recent Media
Dr. Cameron Carlson, the founding director of the Homeland Security and Emergency Management program at University of Alaska Fairbanks, told ArcticToday that the Arctic-specific strategies from DHS and other agencies were “way overdue” given the changing environment...