Plans for a NATO mission to better protect the Arctic region around Greenland are becoming more concrete. The NATO commander, U.S. General Alexander Grynswald, reportedly gave the green light for the military planning of the operation dubbed “Arctic Sentry” as reported by the German magazine “Der Spiegel”.
A spokesperson for Grynswald confirmed the decision when asked. Colonel Martin O’Donnell told the magazine that NATO’s “Enhanced Vigilance Activity” – a ramp‑up of monitoring and surveillance operations – is already underway. He declined to provide further details, noting that the planning is still in its early stages.
The idea for “Arctic Sentry” emerged as a diplomatic response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s demands that America assume control of Greenland; Trump had argued that only by taking Greenland could the U.S. ensure security in the Arctic. He had previously criticized NATO for not taking responsibility for the geostrategically vital region and even hinted at using force to seize Greenland if necessary.
With the mission, NATO aims to demonstrate its ability to respond swiftly. Proposed actions include patrols by NATO warships, improved air‑space control, and the temporary stationing of small land‑force contingents for exercises on Greenland.
The launch of the mission’s detailed planning could proceed rapidly, with NATO defense ministers slated to address the operation at their regular meeting next week. Germany’s defense minister, Boris Pistorius, had already pledged participation several weeks ago, citing potential contributions that could include naval warships, P‑8 maritime patrol aircraft, and Eurofighters.
