US and Canada test Arctic defense readiness in Alaska
Arctic exercises in Alaska test U.S.-Canada combat readiness across land, sea, air See how Tundra Merlin sharpens homeland defense as Russian and Chinese activity grows
U.S. and Canadian forces have carried out a series of Arctic exercises in Alaska to test how quickly they can assemble combat power across land, sea and air in extreme conditions.
The drills, part of the longrunning Tundra Merlin campaign, included moving a HIMARS rocket system and radar into western Alaska, coordinating F35s and F16s against simulated threats, and conducting a maritime strike exercise in the Bering Sea with naval and air support from both countries.
Alaskan Command leaders said the exercises reflect a changing security environment shaped by easier Arctic access, melting sea ice, and growing Russian and Chinese activity in the region. They also said Alaska’s geography makes it a key location for homeland defense and rapid response across the Northern Hemisphere.