Arctic Capabilities: DOD Addressed Many Specified Reporting Elements in its 2011 Arctic Report but Should Take Steps to Meet Near- and Long-term Needs

摘要

The gradual retreat of polar sea ice, combined with an expected increase in human activityshipping traffic, oil and gas exploration, and tourism in the Arctic regioncould eventually increase the need for a U.S. military and homeland security presence in the Arctic. As a result, the Department of Defense (DOD) must begin preparing to access, operate, and protect national interests there. House Report 111-491 directed DOD to prepare a report on Arctic Operations and the Northwest Passage, and specified five reporting elements that should be addressed. House Report 112-78 directed GAO to review DODs report. GAO assessed the extent to which (1) DODs Report to Congress on Arctic Operations and the Northwest Passage (Arctic Report) addressed the specified reporting elements and (2) DOD has efforts under way to identify and prioritize the capabilities needed to meet national security objectives in the Arctic. GAO analyzed DODs Arctic Report and related documents and interviewed DOD and U.S. Coast Guard officials.