Arctic Military Training Exercises

Soldiers maneuver through snowy landscapes, engaged in winter warfare training and exercises, showcasing teamwork and military gear in harsh conditions.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, engages targets during cold weather training on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 6, 2022. This training was conducted to enhance the units combat effectiveness in extreme cold weather as they prepare for an upcoming deployment to Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa theater of operations.

U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, move across a snow-filled landing zone during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Ft. Wainwright, Alaska, March 28, 2023. With more than 8,000 participants and observers from 12 different countries, JPMRC-AK 23-02s multinational environment helps increase Arctic proficiency throughout the Army and the joint force, in support of the nations, and the Armys Arctic strategy.

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, wrap detonation cord around TNT blocks during a demolition range near Setermoen, Norway, March 31, 2023. Marines are deployed to Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 23.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Caleb Savage-Buck, a joint terminal attack controller assigned to Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, uses a pocket laser range finder near a drop zone on a frozen lake during exercise Swift Response, May 10, 2022, in Bardu, Norway. Swift Response is an annual USAREUR-AF led multinational training exercise taking place throughout Eastern Europe, including the Arctic, Baltic Sea, and the Balkan Peninsula regions and is designed to enhance readiness and airborne interoperability with allies and partners.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Samuel Kovaleski (center), an infantry officer and NATO Winter Instructor Course instructor with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, teaching Marines winter combat skills during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 5, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

A U.S. Soldier, assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, during a night troop movement for Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 18, 2024. JPMRC 24-02 is a display of our soldiers ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere. Army

A U.S. Marine with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, engages targets during cold weather training on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 6, 2022. This training was conducted to enhance the units combat effectiveness in extreme cold weather as they prepare for an upcoming deployment to Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa theater of operations.

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers from the 88th Readiness Division ascend the Whitetail Ridge Ski Hill during snowshoe training at Fort McCoy, Wis. on Jan. 21, 2024. Despite the forecasted frigid temperatures, members of HHD Company assembled at the installation's Whitetail Ridge Ski Area on one of the coldest days of the year to train on the use and familiarization of snowshoes and cold weather gear.

Air National Guard Security Forces specialists complete a seven-mile ruck march in subzero temperatures at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) on January 17, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

University of Alaska Army ROTC cadets evacuate a simulated casualty after capturing their objective during an air assault training event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 2, 2022. Following a tactical air insertion, the Seawolf Detachment cadets maneuvered across snow-covered terrain, assaulted opposition forces, secured their objective, and concluded with an air exfiltration. Alaska Army National Guard aviators from the 1-207th Aviation Regiment provided air support for the training. The AKARNGs General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to hone its operational interoperability and maintain readiness for a wide range of state and federal missions.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Nicholas Cote, a security forces Airman assigned to the 180th Fighter Wing, fires an M230 grenade launcher during a heavy weapons training event at Fort Custer in Augusta, Mich., Jan. 10, 2024. The training gives Airmen hands-on experience with various heavy weapons, ensuring they are prepared for any situation around the world. (Air National Guard

University of Alaska Army ROTC cadets assault their objective during a field training evercise at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 2, 2022. Following a tactical air insertion, the Seawolf Detachment cadets maneuvered across snow-covered terrain, assaulted opposition forces, secured their objective, and concluded with an air exfiltration. Alaska Army National Guard aviators from the 1-207th Aviation Regiment provided air support for the training. The AKARNGs General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to hone its operational interoperability and maintain readiness for a wide range of state and federal missions.

U.S. Marines with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, conduct an eight-mile movement on skis during cold weather training on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 3, 2022. This training was conducted to enhance the units combat effectiveness in extreme cold weather as they prepare for an upcoming deployment to Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa theater of operations.

University of Alaska Army ROTC cadets bound to their objective during an air assault training event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 2, 2022. Following a tactical air insertion, the Seawolf Detachment cadets maneuvered across snow-covered terrain, assaulted opposition forces, secured their objective, and concluded with an air exfiltration. Alaska Army National Guard aviators from the 1-207th Aviation Regiment provided air support for the training. The AKARNGs General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to hone its operational interoperability and maintain readiness for a wide range of state and federal missions.

U.S. Army Soldiers, assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division "Arctic Angels", await further orders after a joint forcible entry operation onto Donnelly Drop Zone, Alaska, Feb. 11, 2024, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

U.S. Marine Cpl. Nicholas Hang, a small arms repairer with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, fires an M249 Light Machine Gun during a Live Fire and Maneuver Range in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. CLB-6 is in Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 24.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners. Marine Corps

Air National Guard Security Forces specialists participate in a hypothermia training event in subzero temperatures at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) on January 17, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

Winter war in the Arctic mountains. Operation in cold conditions. Soldier in winter camouflaged uniform in Modern warfare army on a snow day on forest battlefield with a rifle. Selective focus. High-quality photo. Winter war in the Arctic mountains. Operation in cold conditions.Soldier in winter camouflaged uniform in Modern warfare army on a snow day on forest battlefield with a rifle. Selective focus

A U.S. Marine with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, conducts an eight-mile movement on skis during cold weather training on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 3, 2022. This training was conducted to enhance the units combat effectiveness in extreme cold weather as they prepare for an upcoming deployment to Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa theater of operations.

A U.S. Soldier with 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT), operationally assigned to the 1st Infantry Division (1 ID), prepares to fire a simulated anti-tank round using an AT4 during Hammer 22, an annual combined forces exercise conducted by and alongside Finlands Army Headquarters, Armored Brigade, Pori Brigade, Karelia Brigade, Uti Jaeger Regiment and Logistics Department of the Defense Forces, in Niinisalo, Finland, Nov. 9, 2022. The 3-1 ABCT is among other units under the 1 ID proudly working alongside allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Army infantrymen with Blackfoot Company, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, cross an open area while clearing opposition forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, April 1, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere.

University of Alaska Army ROTC Cadet Nathaniel Tamarra proceeds to his objective after offloading from an Alaska Army National Guard UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter, assigned to the 1-207th Aviation Regiment, during an air assault training event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 2, 2022. Following a tactical air insertion, the Seawolf Detachment cadets maneuvered across snow-covered terrain, assaulted opposition forces, secured their objective, and concluded with an air exfiltration. The AKARNGs General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to hone its operational interoperability and maintain readiness for a wide range of state and federal missions.

Air National Guard Security Forces specialists participate in a hypothermia training event in subzero temperatures at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) on January 17, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, fire 50-caliber machine guns during a live-fire range while deployed with Marine Rotational Forces Europe (MRF-E) 23.1 in Setermoen, Norway, April 1, 2023. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen were participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, use an avalanche probe during a demolition range while deployed with Marine Rotational Forces Europe (MRF-E) 23.1 in Setermoen, Norway, March 29, 2023. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Air National Guard Security Forces specialists complete a seven-mile ruck march in subzero temperatures at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) on January 17, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

Two Canadian soldiers from A Company, 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Light Infantry move with purpose to confer about their findings while paused on patrol March 31, 2023 in Yukon Training Area for Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02. With more than 8,000 participants and observers from 12 different countries, JPMRC-AK 23-02s multinational environment helps increase Arctic proficiency throughout the Army and the joint force, in support of the nations, and the Armys Arctic strategy.

U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve learn avalanche rescue techniques in a cold weather class during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 25, 2024. The class covered essential techniques needed for successful operations in extreme cold weather environments, enhancing the Marines' preparedness for arctic conditions. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise showcasing the military's capabilities in extreme cold weather, highlighting joint force readiness, and reinforcing the U.S. military's commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. Marine Corps

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

Air National Guard Security Forces specialists participate in a cold-water immersion and hypothermia training as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota, on January 18, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Seth Walters, a combat arms instructor assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, oversees security forces Airmen firing an M230 grenade launcher during a heavy weapons training event at Fort Custer in Augusta, Mich., Jan. 10, 2024. The training gives Airmen hands-on experience with various heavy weapons, ensuring they are prepared for any situation around the world. (Air National Guard

A Soldier assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont National Guard, moves toward an objective, at Camp Ethan Allen Training Site, Jericho, Vt., January 23, 2017. The Soldiers performed squad ambush exercises as part of their winter annual training.

A U.S. Army infantryman with Bayonet Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 11th Infantry Division, engages approaching adversaries while acting as opposition forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Alaska, April 3, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere.

Leadership from the Wisconsin National Guard, including Maj. Gen. Paul E. Knapp, Wisconsin's Adjutant General, visited soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 120th Field Artillery and 132nd Brigade Support Battalion, both a part of the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, during Northern Strike 23-1 on Jan. 25 in Camp Grayling, Mich. Northern Strike is a winter exercise hosted by the Michigan National Guard, and took place at Northern Michigans National All-Domain Warfighting Center from Jan. 20-29.

DA-ST-87-08580. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Alec Wilson, a paratrooper assigned to Charlie Battery, 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, Arctic Angels, proceeds to the rally point after completing airborne training at Malemute Drop Zone, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Nov. 5, 2022. The 2/11 IBCT (A) is the only airborne infantry brigade combat team in the Arctic and Pacific theaters, providing the combatant commander with the unique capability to project an expeditionary force by air.

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen were participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Army Spc. Joseph Clauson, left, and Sgt. Dylan Hannah, right, both assigned to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, align the sight of a M119A3 Howitzer at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 27, 2023, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC). JPMRC-AK 23-02 validates the cold weather readiness and capabilities of the 2nd Infantry BDE Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division and trains Soldiers for deployment in an Arctic environment.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a foot movement during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 5, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

Cadet Maxwell, a Norwich University ROTC squad member, assists in pulling up his teammates from a cliff at the mountaineering section of D-Series on Fort Drum, New York, on January 19, 2024. D-Series references the culminating exercise the original 10th Mountain Division Soldiers went through from March-April in 1944, to prepare for combat in the mountains of Italy.

U.S. Army Soldiers, assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division "Arctic Angels", await further orders after a joint forcible entry operation onto Donnelly Drop Zone, Alaska, Feb. 11, 2024, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

MAJ. Brooke Myers attempts to establish radio contact with "friendly forces" after he was dropped off in the woods during a search and rescue exercise conducted as part of exercise Brim Frost '83. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST '83 Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Canadian Soldier assigned to Alpha (Para) Company, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, engages opponent forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 20, 2024. JPMRC 24-02 facilitates a range of opportunities for combined, joint, and service component forces to develop and test arctic operational capabilities unlike any other training installation in the world. Army

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Tyler Litten, a combat arms instructor assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, fires an M203 grenade launcher during a heavy weapons training event at Fort Custer in Augusta, Mich., Jan. 9, 2024. The training gives Airmen hands-on experience with various heavy weapons, ensuring they are prepared for any situation around the world. (Air National Guard

U.S. Army Pfc. Edmunds Kremers, an Infantryman assigned to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division pulls security at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 27, 2023, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC). JPMRC-AK 23-02 validates the cold weather readiness and capabilities of the 2nd Infantry BDE Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division and trains Soldiers for deployment in an Arctic environment.

Twenty Minnesota National Guard, four Croatian, and three Canadian Soldiers are competing in Minnesotas Best Warrior Competition March 29 - April 1, 2023, at Camp Ripley, near Little Falls, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers nominated by units across the state. This year two of Minnesotas longstanding partner nations, Croatia and Canada, have sent competitors to participate. Minnesotas winners will move on to compete against the best Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from multiple states at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition hosted by the Ohio National Guard in May.

The Norwegian Home Guard Rapid Response Force completes Situational Training Exercises (STX) with the Minnesota National Guard at Camp Ripley Training Center in Little Falls, Minnesota on February 11th, 2024. The STX events are a part of a culminating event during the 51st Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange between the Norwegian Home Guard and Minnesota National Guard (Minnesota Army National Guard

040206-M-8205V-040. Subject Operation/Series: FOREST LIGHT 2004 Base: Ojojibara State: Sendai Country: Japan (JPN)

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division "Arctic Angel", acting as the opposition force, shares a smile after they conducted direct fire during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 20, 2024. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

U.S. Army Capt. Nelson Guillory, the commander of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, "Leader Rakkasans," 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), supporting 3rd Infantry Division, conducts an after-action review with Estonian Defense Forces Soldiers after egressing out of a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter at Camp Taara, Estonia, Feb. 13, 2024. The 3rd Infantry Divisions mission in Europe is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent, working alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe. Army

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, detonate C-4 during a demolition range in preparation for NATO-exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 25, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Marine Corps

Sgt. Jaidon Novinska, a Mass Communication NCO with the 27th Public Affairs Detachment hailing from Green Bay, Wisconsin, provides imagery support to Soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division during avalanche training provided by the National Ski Patrol at Chalk Creek at an elevation of 11,800 feet near Leadville, Colorado, on Feb. 17, 2024. This intensive program equipped them with essential skills, including safe avalanche response, expert transceiver operation, effective probing methods, efficient shoveling techniques, and the ability to locate buried victims even without transceivers. Just like their predecessors who trained in this very terrain in the 1940s, our Soldiers today are mentally and physically tough, prepared to execute operations in complex terrain anywhere in the world. Army

A U.S. Army paratrooper assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, Arctic Angels, packs his parachute after a jump from a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62nd Airlift Wing, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, during airborne operations over Malemute Drop Zone, Alaska, Nov. 10, 2022. Airborne units use Malemute Drop Zone to practice and strengthen airborne skills to preserve air superiority and Arctic operational skills. (Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Julia Lebens)

U.S. Marines with 2d Marine Division enhance their skiing abilities during the NATO Cold Weather Instructor Course (NCWIC) in Innset, Norway, Nov. 26, 2022. NCWIC is a course designed to develop Marines and other service members to be instructors of cold weather survival training in preparation for future deployments.

Attractive hunter girl with rifle on hunting tower in winter forest

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kelly Pohlman, a security forces Airman assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, provides safety and over watch during a heavy weapons training event at Fort Custer in Augusta, Mich., Jan. 10, 2024. The training gives Airmen hands-on experience with various heavy weapons, ensuring they are prepared for any situation around the world. (Air National Guard

U.S. Army Soldiers of Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, ice climb during sustainment training at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., March 5, 2023. Special equipment, such as climbing axes, sit harness, carabiners, and crampons, allows Soldiers to negotiate steep terrain and vertical obstacles that are otherwise impassable.

U.S. Army Sgt. David Dahl, a combat engineer assigned to 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, tosses a training grenade during the Dracula Games'' hosted by the Romanian Air Defense at Bemowo Piskie Training Area, Poland, Jan. 19, 2024. The Dracula Games was a series of mental and physical small-team challenges involving four different countries: the 3rd Infantry Division representing the U.S., the U.K. Eagle Troop representing the U.K., the 12th Croatian Contingent Iron Boars representing Croatia, and the Romanian Air Defense Transylvanian Gepards representing Romania. The 3rd Infantry Divisions mission in Europe is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent, working alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conducts land navigation and safe routing during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 5, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

Twenty Minnesota National Guard, four Croatian, and three Canadian Soldiers are competing in Minnesotas Best Warrior Competition March 29 - April 1, 2023, at Camp Ripley, near Little Falls, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers nominated by units across the state. This year two of Minnesotas longstanding partner nations, Croatia and Canada, have sent competitors to participate. Minnesotas winners will move on to compete against the best Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from multiple states at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition hosted by the Ohio National Guard in May.

Winter arctic mountains warfare.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips; a native of Pennsylvania and the director for the J-6 command, control, communications, and computers / cyber for U.S. European Command; receives a satellite communications antenna demonstration from U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, at Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 26, 2024. Phillips engaged with communications Marines in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Marine Corps

BRIDGEPORT, Calif. (Dec. 18, 2019) Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Anthony Wolden, takes notes during an Internal Qualification Course (IQC) at the Mountain Medicine, Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Bridgeport, Calif., Dec. 17, 2019. The purpose of IQC is to train Marines and Sailors in mountain warfare techniques and procedures to serve effectively as mountain leader instructors at MCMWTC.

970202-M-8708Y-004 SGT. Savage, an instructor, at MWTC, Bridgeport, Ca. helps out Marine's before they fire the prone position, at the live fire range at Silver Creek. 2nd Marine Regiment and 3rd Battalion 8th Marines based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina spent 34 days at the Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Ca. In which time they received instruction in cold weather survival training, and artic warfare. Official U.S. Marine Corps photograph by LCPL. E.J. Young, 2D Marine Division Combat Camera Unit. 970202-M-8708Y-004 Sgt. Savage, an instructor, at MWTC, Bridgeport, Ca. helps out Marine's before they fire the prone position, at the live fire range at Silver Creek. 2nd Marine Regiment and 3rd Battalion 8th Marines based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina spent 34 days at the Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Ca. In which time they received instruction in cold weather survival training, and artic warfare. Official U.S. Marine Corps photograph by LCpl. E.

Soldiers from the 20th Special Forces Group, Massachusetts National Guard, engage in cross-country ski training during Northern Strike 22-1 (Winter Strike) at the National All-Domain Warfighting Center, Grayling, Mich., Jan. 23, 2022. Winter Strike, the winter iteration of the Northern Strike exercise program, takes place at Northern Michigans National All-Domain Warfighting Center. The NADWC serves as the perfect place for units across the Department of Defense to experience cold-weather, all-domain training, allowing participants to enhance their Arctic warfare capabilities. (U.S. National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob Cessna)

Twenty Minnesota National Guard, four Croatian, and three Canadian Soldiers are competing in Minnesotas Best Warrior Competition March 29 - April 1, 2023, at Camp Ripley, near Little Falls, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers nominated by units across the state. This year two of Minnesotas longstanding partner nations, Croatia and Canada, have sent competitors to participate. Minnesotas winners will move on to compete against the best Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from multiple states at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition hosted by the Ohio National Guard in May.

A Soldier assigned to Battery C, 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas, starts up his vehicle prior to the start of training at Hohenfels, Germany Jan. 22, 2018. The Soldier is among 4,100 troops from 10 nations participating in Allied Spirit VIII, a multinational training exercise designed to test participants' readiness and capabilities..

U.S. Army Pvt. Lowell Bissell, an infantrymen with B Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 11th Infantry Division, pauses for a photograph while acting as opposition forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, March 31, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere. Bissell is from Hopedale, Ill.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Timothy Pope, an instructor with Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Bridgeport, California, demonstrates the application of the Marine Corps Cold Weather Infantry Kit (MCCWIK) to the Marines of Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, on Feb. 22, 2024. The MCCWIK incorporates a sled, transport bag, compression straps, main harnesses, assist harnesses, carabiners, pole sets, climbing skins, and various essential items for cold-weather operations. Its ergonomically designed harness pulling system aids Marines during sled movement, enhancing mobility in challenging arctic conditions. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise showcasing the military's capabilities in extreme cold weather, highlighting joint force readiness, and reinforcing the U.S. military's commitment to mutual strategic security inte

Canadian Soldiers from Alpha (Para) Company, 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry, pose for a picture during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 19, 2024. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

A U.S. Army Soldier from 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, leaves Donnelly Drop Zone after airborne operations as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb 8, 2024. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

A U.S. Soldier, assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, maintains security position for a night troop movement during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 18, 2024. A company of soldiers headed toward an exercise objective at the top of a hill. JPMRC 24-02 builds readiness and enhances interoperability through realistic training within the Arctic Circle. Army

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Army paratroopers with the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, ride snow machines during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, March 29, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 helps Soldiers and leaders develop and refine the tactics, techniques, and procedures necessary to successfully operate in remote and extreme Arctic winter conditions and overcome environmental and military challenges.

Soldiers from the 20th Special Forces Group, Massachusetts National Guard, engage in cross-country ski training during Northern Strike 22-1 (Winter Strike) at the National All-Domain Warfighting Center, Grayling, Mich., Jan. 23, 2022. Winter Strike, the winter iteration of the Northern Strike exercise program, takes place at Northern Michigans National All-Domain Warfighting Center. The NADWC serves as the perfect place for units across the Department of Defense to experience cold-weather, all-domain training, allowing participants to enhance their Arctic warfare capabilities. (U.S. National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob Cessna)

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve security forces units learn to build an Arctic 10-person tent Jan. 19, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

Army soldier shooting weapon in the arctic.

U.S. Army Capt. Ian Brambs, commander of Light Fighter School and Mountain Warfare Instructor, instructs U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division how to execute a rope bridge system during exercise Rolling Thunder on Fort Drum, New York, March 24, 2023. This exercise is a live-fire artillery event that tested the 10th Marine Regiments ability to operate in a simulated littoral environment against a peer threat in a dynamic and multi-domain scenario.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a foot movement during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 5, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

A U.S. Marine with 1st Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, stands watch during a reconnaissance mission to display interoperability with allies and partner nations prior to Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 7, 2024. U.S. Marines, in collaboration with NATO allies and partners, gear up for the Nordic Response 24a biennial NATO training exercise designed to advance arctic security, boost global readiness, and promote interoperability among U.S. Forces, Allied, and partner forces. Marine Corps

011020-F-7203T-007. Complete Scene Caption: Corporal (CPL), Daniel Morrison, USMC, 26TH Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Camp Lejeune, NC armed with a 5.56mm M16A2 assault rifle with M203 40mm grenade launcher attached moves into position at El Omayed beach in Egypt as marines conducted amphibious assault operations, during Exercise BRIGHT STAR 01/02. BRIGHT STAR 01/02 is a multinational exercise involving more than 74,000 troops from 44 countries that enhances regional stability and military-to-military cooperation among our key allies, and our regional partners. It prepares US Central Command to rapidly deploy and employ the forces needed to deter aggressors and, if necessary, fight and win side-by-side with our allies and regional partners. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR 01/02 Base: El Omayed Country: Egypt (EGY)

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen were participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Army Robert Natividad, a horizontal engineer with 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, throws a grenade during the Dracula Games hosted by the Romanian Air Defense at Bemowo Piskie Training Area, Poland, Jan. 19, 2024. The Dracula Games were a series of mental and physical small-team challenges involving Soldiers from four different countries: the 3rd Infantry Division representing the U.S., Eagle Troop representing the U.K., the 12th Croatian Contingent Iron Boars, and the Romanian Air Defense Transylvanian Gepards.. The 3rd Infantry Divisions mission in Europe is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent, working alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Navy Hospitalman 3rd class Joshua Rinehart, a corpsman with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, searches for a simulated avalanche casualty during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 4, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Nath of the 168th Wing Force Support Squadron and Senior Airman Tatiana Zibrowski of the 168th Comptroller Flight clean their boots during the Ability to Survive and Operate in a Chemical environment exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 4, 2022. Nath and Zibrowski were part of a post-attack reconnaissance team during Golden Raven 23-1 at Eielson Air Force Base. Team Eielson exercised the capability to accomplish the mission while countering CBRN threats.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Mitchell Hoffman, a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) operator with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve prepares to operate a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during a joint-performance drill in support of exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Fort Greely, Alaska, Feb. 18, 2024. The HIMARS weapon system is a crucial component of the Ground Combat Element in the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). HIMARS play a pivotal role in providing long-range precision fires to support the MAGTF's objectives, from expeditionary operations to sustained combat in all terrains and climate. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. militarys capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. Hoffman is a native of Skiatook, Oklahoma. Marine Cor

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen were participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, Pacific Air Forces commander, visits Camp Madbull at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Alaska, Feb. 28, 2024. Schneider visited with Airmen across the installation to discuss the quality of life on station to learn more about the unique challenges Airmen and families face while being stationed in Alaska. Air Force

U.S. and Republic of Korea Marines pray in preparation of their final day of skiing during Korea Viper 24.1 at Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea, Feb. 16, 2024. The training teaches Marines multiple skiing techniques, mountain movement, and survival skills in an austere cold weather environment. In its first iteration, Korea Viper demonstrates the ROK-US Marine Corps ability to respond decisively in the region as a singular, unified force while strengthening relationships and trust between the two allies. The Marines are with 2d Battalion, 7th Marines. 2/7 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Marine Corps

An Air National Guard Security Forces specialist assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing completes a hike in subzero temperatures at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) on January 17, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Marines assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 6 , Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, set up and prime explosives during a Live Fire and Maneuver Range in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. CLB-6 is in Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 24.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Spc. Khi Chandler, a paratrooper assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, Arctic Angels, is pulled by his parachute after jumping from a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62nd Airlift Wing, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, over Malemute Drop Zone, Alaska, Nov. 10, 2022. Airborne units use Malemute Drop Zone to practice and strengthen airborne skills to preserve air superiority and Arctic operational skills. (Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Julia Lebens)

An Air National Guard Security Forces specialist participates in a cold-water immersion as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota, on January 18, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

MAJ Reed Estrada (USAF) and MSGT Chris Heim (USAF), 2 ASOS, use a communication device to simulate calling in strike aircraft on bombing runs against several target during a training exercise conducted during Operation Joint Guard actions. Operation Joint Guard is a peacekeeping effort by a multinational Implementation Force (IFOR), comprised of NATO and non-NATO military forces, deployed to Bosnia in support of the Dayton Peace Accords. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

A U.S. Soldier instructs other Soldiers how to use snow shoes for the purpose of maneuvering in arctic conditions during the Cold Weather Indoctrination Course II at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center's Alaska training exercise on Fort Wainwright, Alaska, Feb. 6, 2024. Instructors educated Soldiers on proper use of the Army-issued cold weather clothing system, identification and treatment of cold weather injuries, and military vehicle maintenance in extreme cold weather conditions. Army

Norwegian Army Maj. Kasper Solli, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gabriel Gil-Sanchez, assigned to Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, collect kindling during cold weather training in Setermoen, Norway, April 23, 2022. The 22nd MEU, embarked aboard the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, is participating in a bilateral training event with the Kingdom of Norways Armed Forces to strengthen U.S. and Norway interoperability ensuring collective capabilities and steadfast partnerships among NATO allies and partners.

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