UK's gaps in Arctic defence leave it open to Russian attacks, committee warns
A UK parliamentary report warns that the country faces significant vulnerabilities in Arctic defense due to a shortage of naval assets. The committee highlights that Russia is increasingly active in the region, threatening critical infrastructure like undersea cables and supply routes.
Why it matters
The report underscores growing geopolitical instability in the High North and the potential for direct conflict between NATO and Russia over strategic maritime infrastructure.
Image source, UK Ministry of Defence Image caption, A UK carrier conducts operations in the High North and Arctic
The UK has "glaring gaps" in its ability to defend the Arctic region, leaving it vulnerable to potential Russian attacks, a report by MPs has warned.
The Commons Defence Committee said a shortage of Royal Navy warships and submarines was leaving the country's critical infrastructure in the High North, including undersea cables and energy supplies, exposed.
In the event of a conflict, the report added that Russia could threaten the UK's population, civilian and military infrastructure and vital supply routes across the Atlantic from the US.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said it is "clear-eyed about the threat Russia posed" and is investing heavily to protect Britain's undersea cables.
Former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously warned that Russia could attack Nato by the end of the decade.
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