The UK’s commitment to security in the High North reflected in the preparedness of its Armed Forces

Personnel from across the UK’s armed forces have been refining their ability to operate in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments. Understanding the challenges that come with operating in the High North is crucial to the JEF.

Members of the British Army took part in Exercise HAMMER, the Finnish Infantry’s high readiness training. The goal of this was to prove the Finnish Armoured and Mechanised Infantry combat division’s speed of deployment, while also testing the ability to provide host nation support for JEF and NATO forces. An important factor in keeping the forces moving was the ability for soldiers to maintain their equipment, particularly as the snow began to fall and temperatures dropped below freezing. These conditions provided an excellent means of developing Finnish and British troops’ capability, culminating in a demanding combat scenario.

Meanwhile, Exercise ARCTIC PHOENIX put RAF personnel and equipment to the test, deep within the Arctic Circle, where temperatures reached -20°C. Global Enablement units of the RAF tested their Agile Combat Employment capabilities - to survive an attack, disperse to different locations, and continue to operate - in extremely challenging conditions. After cold weather survival training at Bardufoss Air Station, the newly trained personnel supported RAF Typhoon and Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35A fighter jets' integration training. This included their ability to operate alongside each other, provide Close Air Support and practise air cover to units on the ground. The exercise concluded with the deployment of an RAF A400M Atlas transport aircraft that tested aeromedical evacuation procedures, force protection and the establishment of a forward air refuelling point.

In Northern Norway, elements of the Royal Navy’s Commando Force, including Royal Marines and the Commando Helicopter Force are deployed to enhance their ability to move and fight across the tough Arctic terrain. The Royal Marines have a long tradition of training and operating in and around the fjords and inlets of Norway, working with Norwegian Special Operations Forces and Coastal Rangers to protect Europe’s Northern border. This year the training will link up with Exercises JOINT WARRIOR and NORDIC RESPONSE, where multiple Royal Navy ships and aircraft join activities focused around Northern Norway and the Arctic region.

And in February, P2000s from the Royal Navy’s Coastal Forces Squadron will deploy on their longest deployment in their 35-year history, going deeper into the Arctic than ever before. Transiting via the Netherlands and Denmark, they will work with the Norwegian Navy and Norwegian Coastal Ranger Commandos whilst supporting several key international exercises.

These activities undoubtedly test participants’ resilience and determination; a shining example of the power brought by JEF Participant Nations working as a unified whole. This refinement of skills and procedures in demanding conditions allows forces the chance to forge ever-stronger bonds and prepares them to face competition and crisis with confidence.