When US President Donald Trump talks about buying Greenland, it sounds provocative—but behind the rhetoric lies a rapidly intensifying military competition in the Arctic. From nuclear submarines to missile defense radar, the world’s northernmost region is quietly becoming one of the most strategic frontiers of global security.
Trump argues that Greenland is essential for US defense, particularly as Washington looks to strengthen missile protection against emerging threats. Denmark and Greenland have firmly rejected any sale, insisting that existing defense agreements already address US security concerns. Still, the debate has thrown fresh spotlight on the Arctic’s expanding military footprint.
Russia’s Arctic Dominance
Russia controls nearly half of the Arctic’s landmass, giving Moscow a decisive geographic advantage. Since 2005, the Kremlin has reopened and modernized dozens of Soviet-era bases across its Arctic mainland and offshore islands.
One of the most sensitive sites is Novaya Zemlya, where Russia maintains nuclear-test readiness and last year test-launched its nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile. While no nuclear explosion has occurred there since 1990, Western analysts see the activity as a strong signal of deterrence.
Even more critical is the Kola Peninsula, home to roughly two-thirds of Russia’s second-strike nuclear capability. The region also hosts Russia’s Northern Fleet, which operates half of the country’s nuclear-armed submarines. Access through the Barents Sea is vital—any disruption there could severely constrain Russian naval power.
The US, Canada and the Arctic Shield
The United States and Canada have jointly defended North America through NORAD since 1957. That system is now undergoing modernization, with Canada investing in advanced over-the-horizon radar to monitor Arctic and polar approaches. Initial capability is expected by 2028.
Trump has also pushed for a new missile defense concept known as “Golden Dome,” arguing that Greenland’s location makes it indispensable. The US already operates the Pituffik Space Base in northern Greenland and maintains about 22,000 troops across eight bases in Alaska.
Canada, meanwhile, operates five Arctic bases, including Alert on Ellesmere Island—the world’s northernmost permanently inhabited settlement. Ottawa is also developing refueling infrastructure on Baffin Island, though delays have slowed progress.
Denmark and Greenland’s Quiet Presence
Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command (JAC) is headquartered in Nuuk and includes around 150 military and civilian personnel. While modest in size, it oversees surveillance across Greenland and operates multiple stations, including the strategically located Kangerlussuaq air base.
One of its most distinctive units is the Sirius dog sled patrol, which conducts long-range reconnaissance in northeastern Greenland’s extreme terrain—despite Trump once publicly mocking the unit.
Nordic States and NATO’s Northern Front
Since joining NATO, Sweden and Finland have accelerated military integration with the alliance. Sweden maintains air and army bases in its far north, while Finland operates key facilities along and above the Arctic Circle.
Norway, NATO’s main Arctic sentinel, monitors an enormous maritime zone stretching across the North Atlantic. Its northern infrastructure includes air bases for F-35 jets, naval installations, army bases, and NATO reception facilities.
Iceland: No Army, Strategic Role
Iceland has no standing military, but its strategic value is significant. US Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft rotate through Keflavik air base, and NATO fighter jets regularly deploy there to secure Icelandic airspace.
Why Greenland Matters More Than Ever
As climate change opens new Arctic shipping routes and great-power rivalry intensifies, Greenland’s geography places it at the center of missile defense, early-warning systems, and transatlantic security. Trump’s push to buy the island may be politically unrealistic—but the strategic logic behind it is reshaping how the Arctic is viewed by Washington, Moscow, and NATO alike.
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