The Arctic is a Strategic Distraction

Abstract

This article argues that the growing emphasis on the Arctic as a primary U.S. defense priority is misplaced and diverts critical military resources from higher‑value theaters. It examines commonly cited reasons for increased attention to the High North, including access to natural resources, new shipping routes, and strategic competition, and finds their strategic value limited relative to other regions. While acknowledging measured enhancements in domain awareness and surveillance, the author contends that the Arctic should not become the focus of expansive defense commitments given existing global security demands and the overtasked Joint Force. Strategy, he suggests, should avoid allowing secondary areas to distract from core missions vital to U.S. national security.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Defense Budgets and Military Spending, Defense Policy, Future Strategic Concepts, Great Power Competition, Military Strategy, National Security, Logistics and Readiness

Region(s)

Arctic/High North, United States

Publication Date

1-21-2026

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