Understanding Mobility in the Arctic

Mobility in the Arctic often determines a military unit’s ability to accomplish mission objectives. This article provides fundamental characteristics and models that can be used to adapt military operations for Arctic and cold region terrain. It explains the need for mobility research in the Arctic, details the Arctic regional terrain types, common yet unique terrain surfaces of the Arctic, and the impact of seasonality on mobility. There is still much research to be done to advance mobility in the Arctic. The terrestrial science and basic modeling framework here provide the foundation to develop military operations, doctrine, and equipment solutions for the Arctic.