To say that the Arctic — particularly Canada’s North — has suffered from benign security neglect would be an understatement. Simply knowing what’s going on in the Arctic is one of the most pressing — and vexing — concerns. “Russia sees the Arctic as a key to their great power ambition,” Kristoffersen said. During the exercise, Canadian commandos were dropped far behind enemy lines and Girouard said it was a new experience, even for troops versed in Canada’s Far North. Canada’s Far North covers nearly four million square kilometres, including 36,563 islands, increasing the surveillance and mobility challenges.

Source: CBC News April 07, 2026 14:17 UTC