US military planners say Arctic search and rescue capabilities need to be improved with melting sea ice inviting tourists, oil companies and rival militaries to explore its chilly waters.
A report presented to lawmakers this week recommends more resources should be directed towards Arctic-specific training as warming conditions allow greater access to the region.
“Difficult and unpredictable weather conditions, large distances, and scarce resources make emergency response in the Arctic difficult,” the authors warn.
“Arctic operations are expensive and dangerous for military forces that are unprepared for the austere operating environment.”