GREENLAND’S ROLE IN MITIGATING LOGISTICAL CONSTRAINTS IN ARCTIC MILITARY OPERATIONS
GREENLAND’S ROLE IN MITIGATING LOGISTICAL CONSTRAINTS IN ARCTIC MILITARY OPERATIONS

Author(s): Alexandru ȚURCANU
Subject(s): Security and defense, Military Sciences
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: Arctic; Greenland; military logistics; logistical constraints; military operations.
Summary/Abstract: The growing strategic interest in the Arctic region has prompted a reassessment of the role of logistics in the planning and conduct of military operations in environments characterized by vast distances, limited infrastructure, and extreme climatic conditions. In this context, Greenland gains particular relevance due to its geographical position and existing infrastructure, which can significantly influence the ability to sustain military operations in the Arctic. The analytical approach of this article is grounded in the following research question: to what extent can Greenland reduce the logistical constraints of military operations conducted in the Arctic? The study evaluates the role that Greenland’s infrastructure and location may play in facilitating mobility, sustaining forces, and increasing the resilience of logistical supply chains, without idealizing its capacity to eliminate the limitations of the Arctic operational environment. The research methodology relies on the documentary analysis of military doctrines, strategic documents, and specialized studies relevant to military logistics. This approach is complemented by a conceptual examination of logistical constraints and by the use of Greenland as a case study to evaluate the operational relevance of intermediate support points within the specific conditions of the Arctic environment. The findings indicate that Greenland contributes to reducing logistical distances, increasing operational autonomy, and strengthening multinational cooperation, thereby facilitating the deployment and sustainment of military operations in the region. At the same time, the analysis highlights that the Arctic environment continues to impose significant limitations generated by climate, seasonality, and limited infrastructure capacity. Consequently, Greenland should be understood as a factor that mitigates logistical constraints, rather than a solution capable of eliminating the operational challenges specific to the Arctic region

• Details
• Contents