Britain plans to increase its military presence in the Arctic, Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said today amid growing concerns among NATO allies about Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
Britain is committed militarily “to deeper integration, interoperability with countries like Norway” to protect the North Atlantic, Wallace told a news conference in Bardufos, northern Norway.
“We will have practically, permanently, a … Marine strike team with a permanent presence … active in Scandinavia,” he said, adding that the force would likely alternate between Norway, Sweden, Finland and elsewhere in the region.
Wallace was speaking during a visit to a NATO high school in the Norwegian Arctic, which was attended by 30,000 troops.
The “Cold Response” high schools, which take place every two years, are gaining in importance due to the invasion of Ukraine. NATO member Norway shares a border with Russia in the Arctic.
“Our Arctic strategy commits us to greater education and cooperation,” he said.
“I believe we will have a bigger presence in the region. Our ambition is bold and we will make sure to be there to meet the demand if we are asked,” he added.
Norwegian Defense Minister Odd Roger Enoksen welcomed the commitment.
“We want more allied activity in the north,” Enoxen said.
While tensions in the Arctic region remain, Oslo is concerned that a conflict between NATO and Russia could extend to the Arctic, where both sides have increased their military presence in recent years.
Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ
Source: Capital
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
