There has been a notable shift in NORAD’s observations of predominantly Russian, and to some extent Chinese, activities in the Arctic over the past year, according to the top commander of NORAD. General Gregory Guillot informed CBC News that intrusions by air and sea into zones near North America have not only increased in frequency but have also become more coordinated.
In an exclusive interview, Guillot highlighted the significant increase in simultaneous activities witnessed in 2025. He mentioned instances where multiple ships were present in various parts of the Arctic Ocean and the Bering area simultaneously, followed by air intrusions in different regions hours later.
These actions are believed to be strategic moves aimed at testing the responses of the U.S. and Canadian military forces. By late December 2025, NORAD had publicly acknowledged at least eight separate events involving Russian military aircraft operating near the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone in international airspace, without breaching North American airspace.
Although no sea incursions have been officially confirmed, it was disclosed that the Canadian military monitored a Chinese research vessel in Arctic waters off Alaska for the second time in two years. Guillot expressed confidence in NORAD’s surveillance capabilities and its readiness to protect the Far North when needed.
Regarding the potential integration of Canada into the U.S.’s Golden Dome missile defense system, Guillot mentioned ongoing discussions between the two nations. While Trump has suggested a substantial cost for Canadian participation, the decision remains pending. Guillot emphasized the importance of considering the strategic implications and operational aspects of potential missile defense integration.
In a separate development, a recent study highlighted Russia and China’s advancements in Arctic drone capabilities, surpassing those of NATO nations, including Canada. Guillot acknowledged the U.S. Army’s successful testing of counter-drone technology in the Arctic and its collaboration with Canada on deploying such systems.
Furthermore, the U.S. Army conducted experiments with UAS and counter-UAS technologies in Alaska, including testing a micro nuclear reactor for powering an air force base in the Alaskan Arctic. This initiative is expected to have implications for Canada’s plans to establish radar stations in the region.
Guillot emphasized the potential benefits of micro reactors for military operations in the Arctic, where extreme weather conditions pose significant challenges.