The evolving Arctic: current state of U.S. Arctic policy

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Authors
Dwyer, William G.
Subjects
Coast Guard
Arctic
Arctic Council
Canada
U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea
Department of Defense
Department of Homeland Security
polar icebreaking.
Advisors
Wollman, Lauren F.
Duignan, Kathleen
Date of Issue
2013-09
Date
Sep-13
Publisher
Monterey California. Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
The Arctic environment is in a state of flux and the U.S. government must be prepared to handle the evolution and capitalize on the opportunities. Once barren and desolate, the Arctic is slowly coming to life with industry and commerce brought about by receding ice conditions. Along with that comes the need for a comprehensive and actionable Arctic policy. The other Arctic nations that ring the North Pole are quickly adapting to the shifting Arctic. Unlike the U.S., they have established Arctic policies, are implementing plans to operate in the region, and taking advantage of the opportunities that this new frontier has to offer. The U.S. framework is the National Strategy for the Arctic Region. The plan is short on detail and aspirational in nature. It lacks clear direction and authority. The U.S. has yet to commit to its role as an Arctic nation. The U.S. Arctic lacks infrastructure such as a deep-water port, a joint military base, and additional heavy icebreaker assets. Additionally, there is no lead agency that has authority and funding to carry out U.S. Arctic objectives. Under the current state of affairs, the U.S. is vulnerable to security, economic, and sovereignty issues in the Arctic.
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Thesis
Description
CHDS State/Local
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https://hdl.handle.net/10945/37620
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National Security Affairs
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Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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