Satellite images show how Russia is winning the race for the Arctic as the US plays catch-up

Russia upgraded its northernmost military base, Nagurskoye, in 2017. The trefoil shape allows soldiers to reach its sprawling facilities without needing to go outside. Google | Vantor Satellite imagery shows Russia expanding its Arctic footprint, outpacing everyone, including the US. The US is rebuilding its Arctic presence after decades of decline. China is another Arctic player, expanding investments and military cooperation with Russia. Russia has spent the past decade turning the Arctic into a strategic stronghold. Meanwhile, the US has fallen behind. As shrinking sea ice opens new shipping routes and access to vast reserves of oil, gas, and critical minerals, the Arctic is emerging as one of the world's fastest-growing arenas of geopolitical competition. Satellite imagery tracks that shift in real time, revealing how Russia has steadily expanded its commercial and military presence while the US works to rebuild capabilities after decades of decline.