Russia takes lead in Arctic drone operations as NATO struggles to respond

Russia has gained a significant advantage in the race to control the Northern Sea Route, a crucial passage between Europe and Asia along its northern coast, by heavily investing in drone technology, experts say.

James Patton Rogers, a drone expert at Cornell University and a UN and NATO policy adviser, pointed out that Russia's military began building up a drone fleet in the Arctic as early as 2014. This early investment has put the country at the forefront of Arctic drone operations, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

According to Rogers, Russia’s Zala Aero, a subsidiary of the Kalashnikov Group, is already offering drones specifically designed for the harsh conditions of the Arctic. Additionally, the Russian military has stated that its long-range S-70 Okhotnik combat drone, capable of operating in temperatures as low as minus 12 degrees Celsius, will be deployed in the region.

"We're moving towards a point where Russia will not only have unarmed surveillance drone systems along the Northern Sea Route, but potentially armed systems that are constantly patrolling those areas as well," Rogers remarked, emphasizing the growing military presence in the Arctic.

While Russia continues to expand its drone capabilities, NATO has been slower in developing a coherent strategy to counter this emerging threat. However, NATO has acknowledged the importance of securing the Arctic, strengthening its presence in the region and setting up a new command to protect Atlantic lines. NATO member states are also investing in new air and maritime capabilities to enhance their security infrastructure.

The Trump administration, when approached for comment, did not respond directly but reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing security in the Western Hemisphere, including the Arctic. The US has already made significant investments in long-range drones designed to monitor and gather real-time intelligence from the Arctic. This vast, remote region, which is often beyond the reach of radar and satellite coverage, presents unique challenges for surveillance, and drones have become essential for operations in such conditions. However, these drones face challenges due to icing risks, particularly at altitudes where temperatures hover just above or below freezing.

"The risk to drones is highest in temperatures just either side of freezing - between 8 degrees and minus 10 degrees Celsius. A thin layer of ice forms on propellers and wings and destroys the aerodynamic," said Rogers, further complicating operations in the region.

As Russia continues to solidify its position in the Arctic, the international community, including NATO and the US, faces growing pressure to respond to the evolving threat posed by unmanned systems in one of the world’s most strategically important regions.

By Vafa Guliyeva