Tundra Merlin drills F-35s and HIMARS across Alaska to deter Russia

Key Points:

• The U.S. military is conducting Tundra Merlin, a campaign in Alaska to demonstrate rapid deployment and integration of land, sea, and air forces in extreme Arctic conditions, aimed at defending the northern approaches to the U.S. homeland.
• The operation responds to increased Arctic accessibility due to melting sea ice and growing military activities by Russia and China, who are enhancing their Arctic capabilities and cooperating in the region.
• Alaska's strategic location near Russia and its role as a hub for U.S. homeland defense and global power projection make it critical for Arctic military readiness, with over 22,000 active-duty personnel stationed there.
• Recent exercises involved rapid deployment of rocket systems, coordination between U.S. and Canadian forces, and integration of advanced aircraft like F-35s and F-16s, showcasing the ability to operate jointly across vast distances and harsh environments.
• Challenges include extreme cold, vast distances, and limited infrastructure, requiring specialized equipment and training; U.S. forces remain prepared for current threats but are ready to request reinforcements if the security situation escalates.