In the dead of winter, where the sun refuses to rise and temperatures plunge to minus 17 degrees Fahrenheit, a group of U.S. service members ventured into the heart of the American Arctic. Their mission: immerse themselves in one of the harshest environments on Earth, gaining firsthand insight into Arctic operations, readiness, and strategic planning.
As part of the Ted Stevens Center’s Arctic Fellowship Program, the Arctic Field Study and Orientation, held Jan. 7-9, 2025, provided U.S. military members with an experiential understanding of Arctic conditions. Through site visits, local engagements, and direct exposure to extreme winter environments, participants gained deeper insight into the region’s operational challenges and security considerations.
