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The UK will deploy Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary assets to the upcoming NATO-led Exercise Joint Viking in March, Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed during a recent exchange in the House of Commons.
During the session, Graeme Downie raised concerns about the increasing strategic activity in the High North:
“US navy officials have reported increased Russian and Chinese patrols in the High North. Last week, the Danish navy announced plans to acquire three new Arctic patrol ships, and March will see one of the largest Exercise Joint Viking operations in NATO’s history. With these concerns in mind, will the Secretary of State confirm which UK assets will be involved in Joint Viking this year? What plans does he have to update the 2022 policy paper on the UK’s defence contribution in the High North?”
In response, Healey underscored the UK’s commitment to Arctic defence efforts, stating: “My hon. Friend is right about the High North. We will continue to maintain a strong defence profile and posture. Both the Royal Navy and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary will be taking part in Exercise Joint Viking.”
Exercise Joint Viking is expected to be one of NATO’s largest Arctic exercises, reflecting the alliance’s strategic focus on countering Russian and Chinese activity in the region.
The exercise will test joint operational capabilities in extreme environments and is seen as essential to maintaining the security of the High North’s critical shipping lanes and undersea infrastructure.
Although Healey did not specify plans to update the 2022 policy paper on the UK’s contribution to Arctic defence, his comments reaffirmed the UK’s active involvement in NATO’s collective efforts.
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