Navy's Arctic strategic outlook says region at 'low risk for conflict'

While the Arctic is at "low risk for conflict," the Navy plans to be ready to safeguard American interests in the region during a period of great power competition, according to the service's new Arctic strategic outlook.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson on April 9 told the Senate Armed Services Committee he signed a new strategic outlook for the Arctic earlier this year.

The document, obtained by Inside Defense, is dated January 2019 and details how the service’s view of the Arctic bolsters the new National Defense Strategy.

"This strategic outlook highlights the importance of monitoring the changing environment, continuously evaluating Navy Arctic capabilities, and developing strong partnerships with interagency and international Arctic stakeholders," the document reads.

"The Navy will continually assess its preparedness and make informed decisions on Arctic operations and planning in response to changes in the Arctic operational environment or changes in its strategic context," it continues.

The outlook states the service will evaluate "threats, opportunities, and risks" in the region through the lens of great power competition.

The National Defense Strategy, unveiled in January 2018, seeks to prepare for a period of great power competition, specifically with nations like Russia and China.