The RAF Regiment has returned to one of the world’s most unforgiving environments, the Arctic, where temperatures plummet to as low as -15°C. As part of Exercise Joint Viking 2025, the Combat Readiness Force (CRF) put their Arctic warfare skills to the test, training alongside 10,000 troops from seven nations, including the UK, Norway, Canada, the USA, and others.
In February, around 10,000 personnel from the UK, Canada, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, the USA, and host nation Norway came together in the Norwegian Arctic for one of the most demanding military exercises of the year. The RAF Regiment’s participation was crucial, offering them an invaluable chance to refine their capabilities in cold-weather survival and tactical operations.
Before heading to the harsh, snow-covered terrain, RAF Honington’s CRF HQ conducted essential cold-weather training for troops, covering vital skills such as Arctic survival techniques, advanced medical lessons, and the crucial art of operating in one of the planet’s most hostile climates.
Once in the Arctic, the training didn’t get any easier. Personnel immediately began honing their Arctic warfare skills, which included shelter building, fire-starting using only materials found in the wilderness, and other survival essentials. This critical training ensures the troops are prepared for any scenario where they might become isolated and need to survive in a remote, freezing environment.
But it wasn’t all about survival, it was about teamwork and resilience. The troops also participated in ice-breaking drills, simulating emergency situations where personnel could fall through frozen surfaces. These drills tested both individual and team resilience, emphasising the importance of self-rescue and helping others under pressure. When temperatures reach such extreme lows, every move must be calculated and precise.
The RAF Regiment’s 51 Squadron was deployed to Elvegårdsmoen, Norway, for five weeks to continue building the CRF’s Arctic warfare capabilities. Alongside their RAF counterparts, C-UAS specialists were deployed to improve Norway’s understanding of Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) operations, reflecting the modern challenges in the region.
A highlight of the deployment was the strong collaboration with the Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF), with the RAF Regiment working closely with the 133 Luftving Force Protection Battalion and the 132 Active Defence Platoon. This joint training not only boosted operational readiness but also deepened the relationship between the RAF and RNoAF, fostering stronger alliances and improving the ability to tackle shared threats in Arctic conditions.
While survival was a key focus, the troops also sharpened their tactical approaches to Arctic warfare. Through close cooperation with the RNoAF, they adapted their tactics to the rugged, icy terrain, ensuring they remain an effective fighting force in the region. This training is vital as geopolitical tensions in the Arctic continue to rise.
After three weeks of intense survival training, 51 Squadron then integrated with the RNoAF at Evenes for Exercise Joint Viking, where they assumed responsibility for the defence of the base and provided Force Protection measures in the area surrounding the installation. This was an excellent opportunity to further strengthen RAF and RNoAF interoperability, ensuring the UK’s readiness to operate in the most extreme conditions.
The RAF is unwavering in its mission to maintain air superiority and safeguard UK interests. By continuing to work alongside international partners, the RAF bolsters its ability to deliver global security, protect citizens, and deter threats. The partnership between the RAF and the RNoAF is built on mutual respect and shared values, with a history of military cooperation strengthening their collective defence.
This deployment is a testament to the RAF Regiment’s ongoing commitment to mastering Arctic operations, proving they are ready to face whatever challenges the High North has to offer.
