NORAD has observed a notable increase in Russian and Chinese activities in the Arctic, with more coordinated air and sea incursions near North America, according to Gen. Gregory Guillot, the top commander of NORAD. In an exclusive interview with CBC News, Guillot highlighted the surge in multiple simultaneous activities, such as several ships operating in different parts of the Arctic Ocean concurrently, followed by air incursions in other regions later on.
This heightened activity, analysts suggest, is aimed at testing the response capabilities of the U.S. and Canadian militaries. By late December 2025, NORAD had confirmed at least eight instances of Russian military aircraft operating near the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in international airspace. While sea incursions were not publicly disclosed, the Canadian military had previously monitored a Chinese research vessel in Arctic waters off Alaska.
Despite the escalating tensions, Guillot expressed confidence in NORAD’s surveillance and defense capabilities in the Arctic region. He emphasized the need for vigilance, particularly in areas like Alaska and Greenland, where most activities have been observed. Guillot mentioned ongoing discussions with Canada regarding potential participation in the Golden Dome missile defense system proposed by the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of strategic integration between the two nations.
The evolving geopolitical landscape in the Arctic, characterized by increasing Russian and Chinese presence, poses challenges for NATO nations, including Canada. Guillot highlighted the successful testing of counter-drone technology in the Arctic by the U.S. Army and its collaboration with Canada’s joint operations command. These efforts aim to address the growing drone capabilities of adversarial nations in harsh Arctic conditions.
Furthermore, the U.S. Army’s plans to deploy a micro nuclear reactor to power an air force base in the Alaskan Arctic signal a significant development in military operations in the region. This initiative could have far-reaching implications for Canada’s strategic plans, including the deployment of radar stations in the Arctic. Guillot emphasized the potential of micro reactors to revolutionize military operations in challenging Arctic environments.
