General Grynkewich, a U.S. Air Force general, emphasized that the Arctic is increasingly becoming a new arena for geopolitical tensions due to expanding Russian and Chinese military and dual-use activities. He stated, “The Arctic only grows in strategic importance,” noting how the far north has evolved into a frontline for strategic competition amid climate change opening new access to shipping routes and resources.
The commander pointed to intensifying cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, particularly through joint naval operations. “Russian and Chinese vessels are conducting more and more joint patrols,” he said. These activities extend beyond Russia’s northern coast to areas north of Alaska and near Canada.
Grynkewich expressed particular concern over Chinese involvement, describing how Chinese icebreakers and research vessels are becoming more active in Arctic waters. He asserted that this research is not for peaceful purposes but aimed at gaining military advantages in the polar environment.
He specifically highlighted the nature of these operations, explaining that Chinese and Russian vessels are conducting bathymetric surveys — detailed mapping of the seabed — to understand how to counter NATO capabilities on and under the sea. In a pointed remark, he said: “Chinese and Russian vessels are not studying seals or polar bears. They are conducting bathymetric surveys and trying to figure out how they can counter NATO capabilities. This is not for peaceful purposes.”
On the current threat level, General Grynkewich noted that there is no immediate threat to NATO territory at present. However, he added that as sea ice continues to recede and access improves, Russia and China are increasingly working together in the region.
In response to these developments, NATO is taking steps to adapt its posture. The alliance has established Baltic Sentry, a dedicated effort to protect critical underwater infrastructure, especially in areas like the Baltic Sea vulnerable to hybrid threats. Additionally, recent realignments have strengthened the responsibilities of Joint Force Command Norfolk to better defend Arctic approaches and allied territories in the High North.
The speech set a serious tone for the three-day conference discussions on Arctic security. It comes amid broader concerns about Sino-Russian cooperation in the polar region, including joint coast guard patrols and naval exercises that have approached North American waters.
The provided information draws from coverage by defense correspondent Jonas Olsson and the Clash Report account on X, which shared a video clip from the event showing General Grynkewich delivering his remarks in military uniform against a backdrop of Arctic scenery. The address underscores NATO’s increasing focus on the High North as great-power rivalry intensifies in this rapidly changing environment.
During his keynote address at Sweden’s annual Folk och Försvar national security conference in Sälen on January 11, 2026, General Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and NATO’s highest military authority, highlighted the growing strategic importance of the Arctic region. The conference, now in its 80th year and themed “Handlingskraft och leverans” (Action and Delivery), serves as Sweden’s premier forum for discussions on security and defense policy, bringing together political leaders, military officials, and experts.
General Grynkewich, a U.S. Air Force general, emphasized that the Arctic is increasingly becoming a new arena for geopolitical tensions due to expanding Russian and Chinese military and dual-use activities. He stated, “The Arctic only grows in strategic importance,” noting how the far north has evolved into a frontline for strategic competition amid climate change opening new access to shipping routes and resources.
The commander pointed to intensifying cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, particularly through joint naval operations. “Russian and Chinese vessels are conducting more and more joint patrols,” he said. These activities extend beyond Russia’s northern coast to areas north of Alaska and near Canada.
Grynkewich expressed particular concern over Chinese involvement, describing how Chinese icebreakers and research vessels are becoming more active in Arctic waters. He asserted that this research is not for peaceful purposes but aimed at gaining military advantages in the polar environment.
He specifically highlighted the nature of these operations, explaining that Chinese and Russian vessels are conducting bathymetric surveys — detailed mapping of the seabed — to understand how to counter NATO capabilities on and under the sea. In a pointed remark, he said: “Chinese and Russian vessels are not studying seals or polar bears. They are conducting bathymetric surveys and trying to figure out how they can counter NATO capabilities. This is not for peaceful purposes.”
On the current threat level, General Grynkewich noted that there is no immediate threat to NATO territory at present. However, he added that as sea ice continues to recede and access improves, Russia and China are increasingly working together in the region.
In response to these developments, NATO is taking steps to adapt its posture. The alliance has established Baltic Sentry, a dedicated effort to protect critical underwater infrastructure, especially in areas like the Baltic Sea vulnerable to hybrid threats. Additionally, recent realignments have strengthened the responsibilities of Joint Force Command Norfolk to better defend Arctic approaches and allied territories in the High North.
The speech set a serious tone for the three-day conference discussions on Arctic security. It comes amid broader concerns about Sino-Russian cooperation in the polar region, including joint coast guard patrols and naval exercises that have approached North American waters.
The provided information draws from coverage by defense correspondent Jonas Olsson and the Clash Report account on X, which shared a video clip from the event showing General Grynkewich delivering his remarks in military uniform against a backdrop of Arctic scenery. The address underscores NATO’s increasing focus on the High North as great-power rivalry intensifies in this rapidly changing environment.
