University researchers took part in the International Scientific Conference "NATO's Future Capabilities in Cold Weather", Elverum (Norway)

On November 2-4, 2021, representatives of the National Defence University of Ukraine participated in the International Conference organized by the NATO Center of Excellence for Cold Weather Operations.

The purpose of the conference was to identify and discuss prospects for the development of operational (combat) capabilities for joint operations in cold weather, particularly in the Arctic and other regions with similar weather conditions. In total, the event, held in Elverum, Norway, was attended by more than 300 representatives from 20 Allies and Partner countries.

The urgency of the conference subject and the establishment of such a specialized NATO center in recent years are due to growing competition for resources in the region and the unprecedented military actions of the Russian Federation in the Arctic Ocean. It is known that Russia is trying to take control of large areas of the ocean floor next to the North Pole and fully appropriate the Northern Sea Route, which is becoming much more attractive for world shipping in conditions of global warming.

In response to Russia's activities, NATO leadership is taking steps to strengthen NATO's defence in the Arctic. Therefore, this conference, which was organized for the first time on such a scale and which is scheduled to be held every two years, has acquired significant practical significance.

At the opening of the conference, officials of the top military leadership of the Norwegian Armed Forces stressed the important role of leading states in ensuring peace and stability in the region. The need for timely formation of the necessary joint capabilities was also stressed, taking into account modern experience in the Arctic and Antarctic, the experience of Arctic operations of World War II and especially the experience of using troops (forces) during the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine.

Ukrainian experts, including representatives of the National Defence University of Ukraine and the military administration and military units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, offered NATO colleagues conclusions and lessons from the experience of the Joint Forces Operation (anti-terrorist operations) operation and actions at sea in winter. NATO military experts took the Ukrainian experience with great interest.

The exhibition of weapons and equipment of Norwegian production was an important feature of the event.

The information obtained at the international conference on the experience and prospects for the development of capabilities for conducting operations in cold weather will be used in research, educational activities of the University, as well as training of troops (forces).