NORAD has observed a notable increase in Russian and Chinese activities in the Arctic over the past year, according to Gen. Gregory Guillot, the top commander of NORAD. Guillot mentioned that there has been a rise in coordinated air and sea incursions near North America. The volume and simultaneity of these activities in the Arctic Ocean and Bering area have notably escalated in 2025.
In recent months, NORAD has reported detecting multiple Russian military aircraft near the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone in international airspace. While no sea incursions were publicly acknowledged, Canadian forces monitored a Chinese research vessel in Arctic waters off Alaska last summer.
Guillot expressed confidence in NORAD’s surveillance capabilities to monitor and safeguard the Arctic region. Discussions have also taken place regarding Canada’s potential involvement in the Golden Dome missile defense system proposed by the Trump administration, with considerations on how integration could occur within NORAD.
In terms of military advancements, a study highlighted that Russia and China are ahead of NATO nations, including Canada, in developing Arctic-capable drones. The U.S. Army has conducted tests on counter-drone technology in the Arctic, collaborating with Canada on operational strategies.
Furthermore, plans are underway to deploy a micro nuclear reactor to power an air force base in the Alaskan Arctic, aiming to address power supply challenges for advanced radar stations in extreme northern conditions. Guillot emphasized that such initiatives could revolutionize military operations in the Arctic region.