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How UK Prepares its Commandos for Extreme Challenges of Arctic to Protect NATO.
On January 10, 2025, the United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to securing NATO’s northern flank by announcing the strategic deployment of its commando forces to the Arctic Circle. This initiative, critical for European stability, comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions and reflects the UK’s intent to play a central role in NATO’s collective defense. The Royal Marines, Army Commandos, and Commando Helicopter Force are participating in large-scale military exercises in a region of significant strategic interest.
The UK forces will play a pivotal role as part of the Littoral Response Group (North), a unit combining amphibious ships, landing craft, helicopters, and ground troops (Picture source: British MoD)
Following three months of preparation, over 1,000 commandos have commenced operations in the Arctic, one of the world’s most challenging environments. Camp Viking, located near Skjold, approximately 120 kilometers south of Tromsø, has been designated as their primary operational base for the next decade. This facility ensures a sustained presence in the region, highlighting its importance in the UK’s strategic planning. Extreme temperatures, sometimes reaching -35°C, and prolonged polar nights test the troops’ survival, mobility, and combat skills, requiring meticulous preparation and specialized training.
The Royal Marines build on decades of expertise in cold weather and mountainous warfare, dating back to the 1940s when British forces began developing their capabilities for extreme environments. This experience is now complemented by the integration of modern technologies and specialized equipment, such as snowmobiles acquired through a £10 million investment. These vehicles enhance reconnaissance and raiding capabilities in demanding Arctic conditions, meeting the growing challenges of contemporary operational theaters.
The Commando Helicopter Force, operating from Bardufoss Air Base as part of Operation Clockwork, provides logistical and tactical support to ground forces. For over 50 years, this operation has delivered essential training in polar flight qualifications, survival techniques, and snow and ice driving. Equipped with Wildcat and Merlin helicopters, the unit is prepared for the harsh climate of the Arctic, ensuring operational flexibility and rapid response capability.
The highlight of 2025 deployments will be Exercise Joint Viking, which will involve over 10,000 soldiers from seven allied nations to assess their collective ability to defend Norway’s strategic northern regions. Taking place primarily in Troms County, the exercise will involve complex operations across fjords, islands, and mountainous terrain. The UK forces will play a pivotal role as part of the Littoral Response Group (North), a unit combining amphibious ships, landing craft, helicopters, and ground troops. This formation is designed for coastal raids and swift responses to crises in Europe’s strategic waterways.
This deployment is complemented by the Littoral Response Group (South), active in the Mediterranean and regions east of the Suez Canal. This group ensures extended British operational coverage across multiple strategic zones. The coordination between these units reflects a structured approach to modern challenges, positioning the UK as a key player in global security.
The operation demonstrates the UK’s ability to balance tradition and modernity in addressing the complexities of contemporary warfare in extreme environments. By emphasizing multinational cooperation, technological innovation, and tactical preparedness, the UK underscores its commitment to safeguarding NATO’s interests. These efforts not only strengthen the security of the alliance’s northern flank but also bolster European geopolitical stability in the face of competing powers, including Russia.
Through investments in infrastructure like Camp Viking and participation in major exercises such as Joint Viking, the UK solidifies its role as a cornerstone of NATO’s Arctic strategy. This deployment also highlights its ability to project power and manage emerging crises, reinforcing its position as a leader in international defense and security.