US Launches Operation Tundra Merlin and Strategic Arctic Move in Alaska
US and allied forces are conducting Operation Tundra Merlin in Alaska in response to Russian and Chinese activities in the region.
US forces are conducting comprehensive exercises in Alaska involving rocket systems, fighter jets, and joint warships in response to the growing military activities and cooperation of Russia and China in the Arctic region.
Strategic Exercise Begins in Alaska
US forces are testing their combat capabilities on land, at sea, and in the air across Alaska's harsh geographical conditions. While rocket systems are being deployed to western Alaska, joint warships are being coordinated in the Bering Sea.
Security Environment Changing in the Arctic Region
Lieutenant General Robert Davis, Commander of the Alaskan Command, stated that melting glaciers are making the Arctic more accessible. It is noted that Russia and China are increasing their military capacities in the region.
Details of the Tundra Merlin Campaign
Tundra Merlin is a sustainable military campaign aimed at enabling American and allied forces to rapidly generate combat power to defend northern approaches.
Air and Ground Coordination Among Allies
HIMARS were deployed to western Alaska using a Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft. F-35 and F-16 aircraft and ground systems were simultaneously synchronized against simulated targets.
Joint Naval and Air Strike Scenarios
In September, a joint naval strike scenario was executed with the participation of surface and subsurface vessels, patrol aircraft, and air forces.
Challenges in the Region and Threat Perception
Extreme cold, vast distances, and a lack of infrastructure complicate operations. In the past, NORAD intercepted Russian and Chinese bombers in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone.