| Popis: |
This chapter asks what role air power plays in the Arctic and discusses how air power can contribute to create effects in the region in times of peace, crisis and war. The chapter concludes that air power is a central element in the military strategies of Russia, NATO and Norway, and that all the actors use air power capabilities to maintain situational awareness and presence, enforce national jurisdiction and interests, and to send political messages. Russia has invested in a range of new capabilities, in particular air-defence systems and long-range precision weapons, that improve the ability to secure key areas and provide significant offensive combat power, thereby contributing to offset some of NATO’s conventional advantage. Some NATO members, most importantly the United States, have turned their attention towards the Arctic and have published new strategies specific to the region that highlight the role of air power in securing access and freedom to manoeuvre in crisis and war. Allied air power capabilities also operate in the region regularly. Norway has a small but capable inventory of air power capabilities that is centred around the new F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft and P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The main task of the Norwegian Air Force is to fight for control of the air and support land and maritime operations, both as a first responder in preparation for NATO involvement and as an integrated force with the alliance. The flexibility and offensive punch of the of the F-35 create new opportunities that may in turn require a critical revision of traditional Norwegian concepts and strategies for the use of air power. |
