Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies

As loved ones and friends gather to celebrate this year, let us be grateful for all the blessings of this nation and those who serve to protect it. From everyone in our DoD family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!! ????

?? The November edition of True North is here! ?? This month, we’re highlighting insights from the recent Anchorage Security and Defense Conference and more! Explore True North to learn about upcoming events, new special reports, courses, and the latest happenings at the TSC! #TedStevensCenter | #TrueNorth | #ArcticEducation | #SecurityCooperation

To kick off the final afternoon of #ASDC24, Panel 8: Strategic Horizons, brought together senior leaders from across the Arctic to offer reflections on the future of the region and emerging trends in security and defense. Moderated by Mr. Evan Bloom, Polar Governance Chair Consultant to the Ted Stevens Center, panelists examined Arctic governance, climate change, innovative domain awareness capability, and integrated deterrence. Culminating a week of impactful dialogue, Ted Stevens Center Associate Director for Strategic Engagement, Matt Hickey, sat down with Ambassador Michael Sfraga, Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs, Maj. Gen. (ret.) Randy “Church” Kee, TSC Director, and Ms. Julie Kitka, Federal Co-Chair of the Denali Commission, for a fireside chat. The discussion centered on the idea that Alaska, America’s Arctic, sits at the nexus of domestic and foreign policy. Finally, closing out this year’s Anchorage Security and Defense Conference, both center leaders reflected on the invaluable discussions, collaborative spirit, and innovative ideas exchanged over the past few days. From addressing emerging security challenges in the Arctic to fostering partnerships that strengthen regional and global stability, the Anchorage Security and Defense Conference highlighted the critical importance of cooperation, innovation, and foresight in an ever-changing strategic environment. A heartfelt thank you to all the speakers, panelists, and participants who brought their expertise and insights to the table. Your contributions are the cornerstone of meaningful dialogue and actionable progress. Let’s continue to build on the momentum generated here. Stay tuned for more updates from the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies and we hope to see you back in Anchorage in 2025! #ASDC2024 | #Decisive2020s | #SecurityCooperation

The final day of the Anchorage Security and Defense Conference began with a strong start, as Mayor Suzanne LaFrance and Colonel Matt Komatsu of the Alaska National Guard delivered opening remarks that set a collaborative and forward-thinking tone. The morning sessions offered dynamic discussions addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. In the first session, moderated by Jeffrey Libby of ADAC-ARCTIC at the University of Alaska Anchorage, panelists explored how communities and organizations across the North are fostering resilience through whole-of-society approaches. This discussion emphasized the importance of cohesive networks and durable communities in navigating geopolitical, environmental, and technological challenges, with experts like Brigadier General Timothy Brower and Ms. Julie Kitka, Co-Chair of the Denali Commission, sharing actionable insights. Next, the focus shifted to critical infrastructure security, moderated by Dr. John Garver, Director of the Homeland Defense Institute (HDI) Defense Institute, where leaders discussed innovative strategies for protecting essential systems. Their perspectives highlighted the necessity of international cooperation and adaptive strategies to ensure resilience in an increasingly interconnected world. Attendees also had the opportunity to see a special video message from U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan. The afternoon promises to cap this inaugural event with bold ideas, impactful dialogue, and actionable strategies for the decade ahead. Stay tuned for the grand finale! #ASDC2024 | #Decisive2020s | #SecurityCooperation

Kicking off the afternoon session for day two of #ASDC2024, Panel 5, “Indo-Pacific Allies and Partnerships” brought together diverse perspectives from across Southeast Asia to explore emerging regional and global trends. Moderated by Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies professor Michael Burgoyne, panelists discussed the existing regional security architecture such as the Quad, AUKUS, and ASEAN in strategic competition. Participants heard about the importance of consistent, committed investment and focus on building institutional capacity in the region. The panel was followed by a series of afternoon breakout sessions. Participants were able to choose from a variety of topics including: ?? ?Investing to Shape the Future of the Arctic - The Evolving Role of Education in Meeting Emerging Challenges? ???? Nordic Security Now ??? Below Zero Medicine ??? Threats through, to, and in the North American Arctic ?? ?The National Guard State Partnership Program ?? ?Climate Change and Security ? Looking forward to the final day of panels and discussions tomorrow! Stay tuned! #SecurityCooperation | #Decisive2020s

Day 2 of the Anchorage Security and Defense Conference kicked off with welcome remarks from Ms. Lily Stevens Becker, the daughter of Senator Ted Stevens. She discussed Senator Stevens’ lifelong commitment to public service, and the significance of the establishment of the Stevens Center in his namesake. BGen David Moar, Deputy Commander, Alaskan NORAD Region Command, followed with keynote remarks. BGen Moar emphasized the interconnectedness of the Arctic, the protection of #criticalinfrastructure, the importance of extending multi-domain awareness, and the need for specialized skills in the Arctic operating environment. Building seamlessly on the opening remarks, the following panels covered evolving international relationships from alliances to competitors. Tapping into the expertise of the regional center enterprise, panels 2 and 3 highlighted the collaboration with the George C. Marshall Center and the value of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency and Defense Security Cooperation University mission. Panel 3, “An ‘Axis of Adversaries’?: China, Russia, and Associated States” focused on the evolving nature of the relationship between Russia and China.?Panelists explored the core interests of #Russia and #China, where they align and where the diverge as well as how the Arctic is part of a global plan to challenge the rules based international order and instigate upheaval. Panel 4, “NATO at 75: New Members, New Challenges,” moderated by TSC’s Dr. Matt Rhodes, explored the evolution of the Alliance. Panelists discussed defense and deterrence in the Euro-Atlantic region and the need for advanced plans and capabilities in the Arctic. Participants also heard strategic perspectives from NATO’s newest member nations, Sweden and Finland and their added Arctic territorial defense capabilities. As we close out the morning of day two, TSC Associate Director for Strategic Engagement, Matt Hickey, emphasized the strategic location of America’s Arctic, convening expertise from the European and Indo-Pacific theaters to think collectively about shared strategic challenges. Follow along for more updates from the afternoon sessions! #ASDC2024 | #Decisive2020s | #SecurityCooperation

Day one of the inaugural Anchorage Security and Defense Conference concluded with powerful discussions on security cooperation, follow by a celebration of Alaska’s vibrant Indigenous culture, setting the stage for two more exciting days of collaboration and innovation between Allies and partners. The afternoon began with compelling keynote remarks by Dr. Leigh Nolan, Senior Advisor to the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs. Dr. Nolan underscored the critical importance of Arctic security as a nexus for global challenges and opportunities in this “decisive decade.” This was followed by a thought-provoking panel on “Energy and Technology in a Transforming Arctic.” Experts from government, academia, and industry explored the intersection of climate change, artificial intelligence, and the energy sector. Discussions ranged from the transformative role of emerging technologies to the importance of sustainable innovation in navigating the Arctic’s unique challenges. Panelists like Ambassador David Balton, Dr. Erin Whitney, Dr. Jeremy Kasper, Dr. Humberto Garcia, and Ms. Leslie Canavera provided invaluable insights on the importance of energy security in the Arctic as an essential component of national resilience and security. The day concluded with “Heart of the North: Where Alaska Native People Thrive,” a cultural event and reception honoring Alaska Native’s rich heritage. Attendees were immersed in the traditions and education of the region’s Indigenous peoples, offering a moment of connection and reflection amid the strategic discussions. With two more days of insightful panels, keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, #ASDC2024 is proving to be a vital platform for shaping the future of Arctic security and defense. Stay tuned for more highlights as the journey continues tomorrow! #ASDC2024 | #Decisive2020s | #SecurityCooperation

The inaugural Anchorage Security and Defense Conference is officially underway! Kicking off the day, attendees gathered for a powerful opening ceremony featuring welcome remarks from Randy “Church” Kee, Director of the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies; Dr. Aaron Dotson, Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Alaska Anchorage; and Mr. Richard Porter, Executive Director of the Knik Tribal Council. The lamp-lighting ceremony set the tone for a meaningful dialogue on the pressing security and defense challenges of our time. ? The conference started with a series of keynote addresses titled “U.S. Perspectives on Defense in the North.” Speakers included General Gregory Guillot, Commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command; Major General Peter Andrysiak, Chief of Staff of U.S. European Command; Vice Admiral Andrew Tiongson, Commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area; and Vice Admiral Nathan Moore, Commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. They shared their views on the evolving security landscape, including the resurgence of large-scale conflict, technological advancements, and the increasing importance of Arctic security in the face of global geopolitical shifts. ? Later in the morning, the focus shifted to Allied perspectives on defense in the North during the first panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Kathryn Bryk Friedman, North American Arctic Policy Adviser to the Ted Stevens Center. Panelists included Major General Joseph Hilbert, Commanding General, 11th Airborne Division, United States; Brigadier General Dan Riviere, Commander, Joint Task Force North, Canada; Mr. Youssef Mani, Assistant Commissioner, Coast Guard Arctic Region, Canada; Major General Soren Andersen, Commander, Joint Arctic Command, Kingdom of Denmark; and Rear Admiral. Steve Moorhouse, Assistant Chief of Defense Staff (Operations and Commitments), United Kingdom. Panelists discussed the challenges of Arctic defense, emphasizing collaboration among Allied nations to address climate change, maritime security, and technological advancements. ? The morning’s sessions underscored the importance of cooperation among Allied nations in addressing security challenges during a transformative decade. Leaders emphasized the need for collective action to adapt to the rapidly changing security landscape, with the Arctic serving as a vital strategic region for both military and environmental considerations. As the conference moves into its afternoon sessions, attendees are poised to build on these discussions with a continued focus on innovation, collaboration, and strategic foresight. ? Stay tuned as we move into the afternoon sessions, where the dialogue will continue to shape our understanding of the decade ahead. Together, we're addressing the challenges and opportunities that will define the future of Arctic security. ? #ASDC2024 | #Decisive2020s | #SecurityCooperation

Earlier this afternoon, the International Cooperative Engagement Program for Polar Research (ICE-PPR) combined U.S. and multinational?Situational Awareness Working Group (SAWG) held its quarterly meeting in Anchorage, Alaska. This significant gathering brought together Allies and partners from across the High North, meeting both in-person and virtually to advance collaboration in Arctic research and defense innovation. ICE-PPR is a collaborative agreement among seven partner nations' defense departments and government agencies, working to advance polar science and technology. Nations participating in this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) include the United States, Canada, Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden. The U.S. involvement in ICE-PPR is coordinated by the Office of Naval Research. This international effort focuses on driving research and technology development to ensure safe, stable, and secure Arctic environments, while enhancing interoperability and partnerships. Today’s meeting underscored the critical importance of situational awareness in the Arctic and featured presentations on research and technologies. Randy "Church" Kee, Director of the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, and Chair of the ICE-PPR SAWG, opened the meeting with welcoming remarks, setting the tone for an engaging and collaborative session. John Woods, representing the Office of Naval Research, provided ICE-PPR executive notes, highlighting the program's progress and strategic priorities. The agenda also included compelling presentations from Dr. Phil McGillivary who shared insights into ongoing scientific advancements; Andy Glen from Sandia National Laboratories who presented on high-altitude balloon, measurements, and modeling; and Leslie Canavera of PolArctic who showcased advancements in sea-ice modeling using AI technologies. Additionally, the meeting offered newcomers the opportunity to share their perspectives on emerging challenges and opportunities in the Arctic, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation. With ICE-PPR's emphasis on joint research and technology development, the meeting served as a strong reminder of the shared commitment to ensuring stability in the High North through cooperative efforts. This productive gathering set the stage for the Anchorage Security and Defense Conference, which kicks off tomorrow at 9 a.m. We are excited to continue these essential discussions on Arctic security and innovation as we embark on #ASDC2024!

#ASDC2024 is almost here, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Anchorage! ??? To make your experience as smooth as possible, we encourage you to take advantage of Early Registration Check In: ?? Date: Monday, November 18 ?? Time: 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. ?? Location: Hotel Captain Cook – Lobby Alcove (near the main ballroom) Skip the lines and get your conference materials in advance. You'll receive your credentials, agenda packet, and everything you need to hit the ground running! If you miss early registration check in, we’ve got you covered: ?? Day-of Registration Check In: Tuesday, November 19, 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Remember to bring your ID and registration confirmation email (just in case). We’re looking forward to an engaging and productive event—see you there!