The Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Russian Ministry of Defence says that Russia is aggressively increasing its military presence in the Arctic under the pretence of scientific research.
Moscow is using scientific research as a cover to build up its strategic presence in the resource-rich and easier-to-reach territory. The Kremlin is preparing a “bridgehead for resource expansion” as global warming opens up new economic and logistical opportunities.
A key instrument in the realization of Russia’s Arctic strategy, the GUR highlights, is the state-owned “Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute.” While formally tasked with “scientific assignments,” the institute is, in fact, an integral part of Moscow’s broader resource-military project.
Parallel to these “scientific” efforts, Russia is actively developing the region’s infrastructure. This includes the installation of advanced communication equipment, particularly satellite communication systems. These systems, the GUR suggests, can be utilized to coordinate Arctic operations of the Russian Northern Fleet and support the deployment for unmanned systems.
“The world must be prepared that the Kremlin’s next ‘scientific initiatives’ are merely a cover for a new phase of Arctic militarization,” stated Andrii Cherniak a representative of the GUR
