NATO commences biennial Cold Response exercises in the Arctic

NATO has launched its biennial military exercise, Cold Response, running from March 9 to March 19, 2026. The drills are part of the broader Arctic Sentry mission, which aims to strengthen the Alliance's presence in the Arctic region, specifically near the borders Norway and Finland share with Russia. Approximately 25,000 personnel from 14 countries are participating, including 4,000 U.S. troops. The exercises focus on the defense of the European Arctic and emphasize civilian-military cooperation. Norway has designated 2026 as a year of 'total defense' to prepare state and private sectors for crises. Sources link the regional buildup to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving U.S. interests in Greenland, though official statements emphasize the focus on Allied integration and defensive preparedness. Recent activities included the first NATO AWACS mission in Finnish airspace under the Arctic Sentry framework.