U.S. Increases Naval Presence Near Alaska Following Foreign Maritime Movements

U.S. deploys warships near Alaska as China and Russia increase joint naval activities in the Northern Pacific, raising concerns about regional security.

At a Glance

U.S. deploys three warships near Alaska for homeland defense operations
China and Russia conduct fifth joint patrol in Northern Pacific waters
130 U.S. soldiers and mobile rocket launchers sent to Shemya Island, Alaska
Russian military planes tracked in Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone
Increased U.S. military presence in Alaska amid rising tensions

U.S. Bolsters Defense Near Alaska

The United States has strategically positioned three warships near Alaska in response to heightened military activities by China and Russia in the Northern Pacific. The USS Kidd, USS Sterett, and USS Lake Erie have been deployed as part of homeland defense operations, signaling a clear message of readiness and deterrence.

This naval deployment is not occurring in isolation. The U.S. military has also stationed 130 soldiers and mobile rocket launchers on Shemya Island in the Aleutian chain of western Alaska. These moves come as a direct response to the increasing presence of Chinese and Russian naval forces in the region.

The U.S. Army is sending 100 soldiers to the Aleutians after multiple sightings of Russian and Chinese planes and ships near Alaska's air and water boundaries. https://t.co/M7nVJ1txCS

— Alaska's News Source (@AKNewsNow) September 18, 2024

China-Russia Joint Naval Activities

China and Russia have intensified their military cooperation, conducting their fifth joint patrol in the Northern Pacific Ocean. This collaboration, part of the “Ocean-24” military drills, began on September 10 and encompasses both Pacific and Arctic waters. The joint exercises have raised concerns among U.S. officials and allies about the strategic implications for regional security.

“Following the conclusion of the exercise, the Chinese and Russian warships commenced their fifth joint maritime patrol in what China’s military called ‘relevant waters of the Pacific Ocean.'” – Source

The joint patrols have not been limited to naval activities. In July, NORAD intercepted Russian and Chinese bombers near Alaska, marking the first joint operation interception of its kind. This event underscores the evolving nature of the security challenges facing the United States in the Arctic region.

Heightened Alert and Monitoring

The U.S. military’s response to these developments has been comprehensive. Fighter squadrons in Alaska are on heightened alert, and the U.S. Coast Guard has reported encounters with Russian Navy vessels near Point Hope, Alaska. NORAD has tracked Russian military planes in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone over multiple days, with 25 incidents reported this year alone.

“The U.S. Northern Command, which is responsible for homeland defense, confirmed to Politico in a statement that the Sterett was sent to support the command’s ‘maritime homeland defense mission’ in response to the known Russian exercise in the region.” – Source

These incidents have prompted a reevaluation of U.S. military posture in Alaska. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) has expressed concern over the increased Russian and Chinese military activity and emphasized the need for upgraded military infrastructure in the state to address these emerging challenges.

Implications for Arctic Security

The Arctic region, which includes territories of eight nations, has become a focal point of strategic competition. With all Arctic nations except Russia being NATO members, the potential for conflict has increased. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s statement that Russia is ready for conflict with NATO in the Arctic has further escalated tensions.

“Russia’s foreign minister is warning that it is “fully ready” for a conflict with NATO in the Arctic.” – Source

As the situation continues to evolve, the U.S. military remains vigilant, actively monitoring and responding to Russian and Chinese military activities in the region. The deployment of additional units and equipment, including a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System to the Aleutian Islands, demonstrates the United States’ commitment to maintaining security and stability in this strategically important area.