Reflections from Arctic Multidomain Legal Course (AMLC) 25-01

The Arctic operational environment is undergoing significant transformation. The readiness of service members to accomplish their mission depends upon a foundational understanding of legalities across all domains. To train defense and security professionals in this regard, the School for Arctic Security Studies virtually hosted the Arctic Multidomain Legal Course (AMLC) March 4-6, 2025. With more than 50 participants from North American and European countries, participants developed basic knowledge of the legal principles, frameworks, and instruments relevant to the Arctic in the maritime and air domains.

Course participants enhanced their competencies through an in-depth exploration of critical legal and operational issues in the Arctic. Key areas of focus included the strategic significance of freedom of navigation in the region, the regulatory frameworks governing airspace operations—particularly foundational elements of Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZs), international norms on aircraft interception, and emerging legal considerations surrounding high-altitude unmanned balloon systems. Training also examined how China strategically employs lawfare to challenge legitimacy and erode established legal norms in the Arctic.

The program culminated in a capstone training simulating a United Nations Security Council session, during which participants demonstrated their proficiency by presenting legal arguments in a complex, scenario-based environment. Participant feedback emphasized the course’s exceptional value, describing the AMLC as “stellar,” “comprehensive,” “engaging,” and “timely.” One participant encapsulated the general sentiment, calling it a “must-take” course to best prepare security and defense practitioners to deter war. he next virtual AMLC is scheduled for May 6-8, visit our Courses & Seminar webpage to sign up: https://tedstevensarcticcenter.org/courses-seminars/