U.S. Arctic Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC): The Imperative for a Maritime Complex and Corridor in the Bering Region

Authors

Samuel A. Krakower, U.S. Coast GuardFollow
Troy J. Bouffard, University of Alaska-FairbanksFollow

Abstract

This paper examines the current American capacity to defend its newfound Sea Lines of Communication in the North Pacific and Arctic Oceans. The history, and importance, of Sea Lines of Communication trace back to great naval strategists such as Rear Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan and Sir Julian Corbett, and consistent protection of these maritime corridors in times of war and peace led to the success of the United States. As the Arctic Region emerges as a new theater of geopolitical importance, the United States finds itself significantly disadvantaged or "strategically handicapped” in terms of presence, capability, and proximity to defend its newfound Arctic waters, with no major maritime hub north of Anchorage, Alaska. The City of Nome provides substantial debate as efforts increase for its port to become America’s first deepwater Arctic port, and notwithstanding construction setbacks, expeditious buildup of the port and its surrounding infrastructure can make the location an established Sea Line of Communication node, leading to more effective American presence and adversarial deterrence in the North Pacific Ocean and Arctic Region.

Recommended Citation

Samuel A. Krakower & Troy J. Bouffard, "U.S. Arctic Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC): The Imperative for a Maritime Complex and Corridor in the Bering Region," Joint Force Quarterly 119 (4th Quarter 2025), 97-108, https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/joint-force-quarterly/vol119/iss4/13.