Russia is weaponizing the Arctic Circle and sending heavy military assets to secure a priority strategic geopolitical zone. They have already created the new Russian Arctic Joint Strategic Command, moved in military forces and equipment and planned construction of air bases and new brigade formations.
The motive is clearly for greater control of the Russian northern corridor and defense of the Russian sea routes and Arctic claims; especially the assured access of up to 30 percent of the world’s natural gas, 15 percent of its remaining oil reserves and 20 percent of its liquid natural gas stores.
According to Russia’s Sputnik News, S-400 Triumph surface-to-air defense systems were installed in the Arctic Circle to support its Northern Fleet. The S-400 Triumph missiles have a maximum range of 250 miles and can reach an attitude of almost 19 miles. Russia plans on linking nine Triumphs in the arctic. Additionally, Russia has reinforced its positions in Kaliningrad and Crimea.
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