A Case Against Significant Military Expenditure in the Arctic
Abstract
Year after year summer sea-ice coverage in the Arctic continues to decline, uncovering untold amounts of natural resources and the potential for new shipping routes across the Arctic to further connect Europe and Asia. As these economic opportunities emerge, so does the possibility of conflict as competitors seek to stake their claim in this previously untouched region. However, the Arctic remains cold, inhospitable, and difficult to access most of the year. Though summer sea-ice retreats further every year, the extent of winter sea-ice has only marginally decreased. U.S. Maritime Strategy has argued for an increased military presence in the Arctic in order to not cede influence to Americas rivals. This paper explores counterpoints to stated U.S. Maritime Strategy in the Arctic, the possibility that many of the Arctic's economic opportunities will not be economically viable for many years to come, and that the U.S. will not cede ground by taking a more cautious approach expanding into the Arctic.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 14, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1144356
Entities
People
- Nicholas Carr
Organizations
- Naval War College