# Press and Media

- DOD Has Seen 'Huge' Increase in Military Sales Since Ukraine Invasion DOD Has Seen 'Huge' Increase in Military Sales Since Ukraine Invasionjuanita.b.whit...Wed, 04/10/2024 - 13:53            By C. Todd LopezLast year, the Defense Department set a record for sales of military equipment and hardware, especially among European partners and allies, said the director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency."We've had a huge increase in demand from our European allies and partners over the last few years since the ... invasion by the Russians in Ukraine," James Hursch said yesterday during the 2024 Sea-Air-Space maritime exposition just outside of Washington.European nations — including Sweden, Poland and the Netherlands, to name a few — have become "huge customers" for U.S. military hardware, he said.In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. did more than $80 billion in business through the foreign military sales system, including grant assistance. "That is a record," Hursch said.The total authorized value of implemented arms transfers and Security Cooperation programs for FY2023 was $80.9 billion. This included $62.25 billion in arms sales funded by U.S. allies and partner nations and $3.97 billion under the Title 22 Foreign Military Financing program.  An additional $14.68 billion was used for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and for Building Partner Capacity programs conducted by the Defense Department and also for programs under the Foreign Assistance Act.  The Foreign Assistance Act has funded programs such as international narcotics control and law enforcement, nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, demining, and related programs.  In both fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2023, Hursch said a substantial portion of sales came from NATO allies, including $20 billion in fiscal 2022 and $24 billion in fiscal 2023."This is a huge increase," he said. "That's representative of the increased investment that our allies in Europe are making every day, which is a story that may not be as widely reported as it needs to be."Poland, Hursch said, has been particularly involved in increasing its defense though foreign military purchases. Foreign military sales to Poland in fiscal 2023 included AH-64E Apache helicopters; High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS; the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System, and M1A1 Abrams Main Battle tanks.Hursch also said Poland is involved in a different kind of defense-related cooperation involving defense production."We've recently undertaken some new cooperation with Poland in the joint co-production of some defense systems," he said. "We're looking at how to do that with other allies and partners, as well."While the U.S. made record sales of defense articles in fiscal 2023, co-production of defense systems, such as what Hursch said is happening with Poland, has become an increasingly important way for the U.S., allies and partners in Europe and around the globe to strengthen their own defense industrial bases. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, this has become increasingly important, Hursch said."One of the principal lessons we have learned in the Ukraine crisis and looking at ourselves as we've gone through this is ... the health of our defense industrial base," he said. "I think we've discovered ... domestically, we need to pay more attention to that. We have a new National Defense Industrial Base Strategy, which has been published by [DOD's] acquisition and sustainment office. But I think it's also true that we're seeing in Europe an increased focus on the strength of the industrial base. And we're looking for ways in which we can cooperate across those industrial bases."URL: https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3736017/dod-has-seen-huge-increase-in-military-sales-since-ukraine-invasion/ 
- To Walk the Earth in Safety (2024) To Walk the Earth in Safety (2024)juanita.b.whit...Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:00            The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs (PM/WRA) has just unveiled the 2024 annual report, "To Walk the Earth in Safety."This report showcases the impactful efforts of U.S. conventional weapons destruction programs in aiding communities affected by explosive remnants of war to recover and rebuild.DSCA’s component, the Humanitarian Demining Training Center is also featured in this report on page 43. It is dedicated to training and equipping U.S. military forces, U.S. government stakeholders, as well as U.S. allies and partner nations in conducting humanitarian mine action missions, explosive remnants of war disposal, and physical security and stockpile management through innovative "Train the Trainer" instructional methods.Read the report: https://www.state.gov/reports/to-walk-the-earth-in-safety-2024/Watch a video on HDTC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bbcwlHOKdE&t=37s            Humanitarian Mine Action          humanitarian assistance          HDTC
- TSC’s Arctic Fellowship program prepares future leaders for Arctic challenges and opportunities TSC’s Arctic Fellowship program prepares future leaders for Arctic challenges and opportunitiesdsca.adminWed, 03/27/2024 - 08:52            Story by Amber KurkaIn its inaugural year, the Ted Stevens Center’s Arctic Fellowship program is aimed at cultivating a cadre of security practitioners with a nuanced understanding of Arctic security dynamics. The program, in partnership with the University of Alaska, is designed to equip military leaders with the expertise required to navigate the complex geopolitical and geophysical landscape of the Arctic.Currently, the program has three fellows: two from the U.S. Air Force, on track to graduate this May after a one-year program, and one from the U.S. Coast Guard, who has one more year remaining in the two-year program. Upon completion of the fellowship, all participants will earn a master’s degree, but most notably they will have gained valuable firsthand knowledge and experience while engaging on a wide-range of Arctic security topics and issues.The Arctic Fellowship program, developed in alignment with U.S. National Security and DoD strategic objectives, offers participants a comprehensive educational experience. Through engagement with the Ted Stevens Center and the University of Alaska, fellows gain expertise in areas crucial to the DoD mission(s) in the Arctic."Developing the future Arctic leaders through professional engagements, professional development, travel, research, and education is crucially important," explained Capt. Grant Thomas, U.S. Coast Guard Liaison and Arctic Fellows coordinator. He highlighted the program's significance in addressing critical issues outlined in national defense and security strategies, citing the Arctic's strategic importance in global geopolitics."Establishing relationships and understanding the various intersection of issues impacting the Arctic is crucial," Thomas remarked.He emphasized the program's role in fostering trust and collaboration through interactions with civilian educators, government agencies, and international partners. " The essence of security cooperation is building trust and relationships," he stated." This program is designed to do just that.""The majority of Americans probably do not see the U.S. as an Arctic nation," Thomas noted. "We collectively need to change that narrative, and this program is a very important piece in doing so." This program helps grow and shape future DoD leaders with the Arctic knowledge, networks of subject matter experts, and critical development in this rapidly changing region.The program's objective is clear: to develop leaders with a deep understanding of the Arctic's role in international security and civil-military affairs. By providing participants with opportunities for research, education, and engagement, the fellowship equips the participants to be knowledgeable regarding U.S., allied, and DoD Arctic security priorities effectively in their future roles.As the program looks toward the future, efforts are underway to expand its reach to the Army and Marine Corps, in addition to the Space Force and Navy. The program's continued refinement aims to strike the right balance between civilian education and firsthand Arctic experiences as part of the Ted Stevens Center’s Arctic Fellows program, ensuring that future leaders are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the region."This program is a phenomenal opportunity for all of the service components," remarked Captain Thomas." It addresses a myriad of critical issues highlighted in our National Defense, National Strategy for the Arctic, and Security Strategies, underscoring the strategic importance of the Arctic in global geopolitics."As the program moves forward, it will continue to evolve to meet the specific needs of each service branch. With a commitment to refinement and growth, the TSC's Arctic Fellowship program is poised to become an indispensable resource for developing future Arctic leaders across the military spectrum.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies
- Forging Arctic collaboration: Ted Stevens Center makes debut at ICE CAMP 2024 Forging Arctic collaboration: Ted Stevens Center makes debut at ICE CAMP 2024dsca.adminWed, 03/27/2024 - 08:52            Story by Amber KurkaIn a bold stride towards Arctic collaboration, the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies ventured into uncharted territory as its staff embarked on an inaugural journey to Operation Ice Camp (ICE CAMP) 2024, located a brisk 200 nautical miles north/northeast of Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, March 19-20. This significant move not only marked a historic milestone for the TSC but also heralded a new era of cooperation in the frigid expanses of the Arctic.ICE CAMP 2024, a rigorous three-week operation aimed at testing and evaluating operational capabilities in the Arctic, saw a convergence of military personnel and research teams from across the globe. This year’s exercise served as a proving ground for the resilience and adaptability of all involved, amidst temperatures ranging from -5 to -15 Fahrenheit, with wind chills plummeting to -45.Matthew Hickey, the associate director of the Strategic Engagement Division, and Courtney Guinan, an event coordinator at TSC, spearheaded the center's maiden voyage into ICE CAMP. Their presence not only bolstered the logistical framework but also epitomized the TSC’s commitment to fostering security cooperation efforts with Arctic allies and partners.Reflecting on their experience amidst the icy expanse, Guinan remarked, "Participating in ICE CAMP 2024 was an unparalleled opportunity to witness firsthand the dedication and ingenuity of all involved. Our engagement not only strengthens our bonds with Arctic allies but also sets the stage for future collaboration in this critical region."The challenges posed by the Arctic environment were met head-on by the TSC team, as they braved blowing snow and winds of up to 35 knots, which led to flight cancellations and limited helicopter operations. Undeterred by the adversity, the team lent a helping hand to MIT Lincoln Laboratories in retrieving equipment for studying digital wave responses to ice sheet movements.Hickey ventured into the icy depths, digging through two meters of ice to deploy buoys for University of Washington's Applied Physics Laboratory. Meanwhile, Guinan assisted MIT with a groundbreaking underwater camera prototype, showcasing the TSC’s versatility and adaptability in the face of extreme conditions.ICE CAMP 2024, formerly known as Ice Exercise (ICEX), has evolved into a cornerstone of Arctic operations, aligning with the Navy’s priority to maintain an enhanced Arctic presence and strengthen alliances and partnerships. The Arctic Submarine Laboratory (ASL), serving as the epicenter of Arctic research and coordination, facilitated the seamless integration of over 200 participants from five nations.“It was really great to see ICE CAMP and to work with the researchers and our allies and partners,” explained Guinan. “Next time we hope to integrate our School of Arctic and Climate Security Studies and members from our Research and Analysis Division to help further international security cooperation.”As ICE CAMP 2024 concluded, the Ted Stevens Center emerged as a beacon of collaboration in the Arctic, paving the way for future engagements aimed at bolstering security cooperation efforts and fortifying alliances in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies          Research
- Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies launches Coffee Talk initiative Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies launches Coffee Talk initiativedsca.adminWed, 03/27/2024 - 06:55            Story by Amber Kurka, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security StudiesJOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- In an effort to foster stronger community relationships and promote collaborative security solutions for the Arctic region, the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies has launched a new Coffee Talk initiative. This program aims to connect with stakeholders in the local community, facilitate discussions, and build a network of security leaders, both domestically and internationally.Courtney Guinan, an Event Planning Program Manager at the TSC, explained that Coffee Talks serves as an in-person platform to introduce potential stakeholders to the center and to establish meaningful connections that would benefit international security cooperation efforts in the Arctic region."We want to form relationships with people in our community, let them know who we are, and engage in discussions that could lead to future collaboration," Guinan explained.Aligned with the TSC's mission to promote understanding and provide collaborative security solutions, the Coffee Talk initiative supports the implementation plan of the National Strategy for the Arctic Region, which emphasizes a whole-of-government approach to Arctic security."Our goal is to use Coffee Talks as a means of promoting a whole-of-government approach to implementing policy and Arctic security initiatives," Guinan continued.The target audience for Coffee Talk events includes government agencies, private entities, and organizations working towards promoting security within the state of Alaska. From stakeholders focused on food security to those involved in search and rescue operations, Coffee Talk aims to engage a diverse array of participants."Anyone with an interest or involvement in the security environment in Alaska, including the Department of Defense, state and local government organizations, and private entities, are welcome to participate," Guinan emphasized.Moreover, Coffee Talk events extend beyond the borders of Alaska, fostering collaboration with Canadian partners to address shared security concerns in the North American Arctic region."We recognize the importance of collaborating with our Canadian neighbors, as events in one country's territory can impact the other," Guinan stated. "Facilitating dialogue between search and rescue teams from both countries, for example, enhances efficiency and effectiveness in emergency response efforts."Matthew Hickey, Associate Director of the Strategic Engagement Division at the TSC, highlighted the significance of Coffee Talks in establishing a robust local network to support Arctic security efforts."Coffee Talks allow us to engage with relevant players in the Arctic security world, strengthening our network and positioning ourselves at the center of local and international dialogue on Arctic security," Hickey explained.To schedule a Coffee Talk with leaders from the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, interested parties can contact the TSC Public Affairs Office at: TSC.Arctic.PublicAffairs@groups.af.mil.Guinan emphasized the center's readiness to accommodate various preferences, whether meetings take place at the TSC facility on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson or at external locations within communities."We're open and approachable, interested in fostering relationships that benefit the state, the country and the Arctic region," Guinan concluded.As the Coffee Talk initiative gains momentum, the TSC remains committed to building a strong, sustainable network of security leaders and promoting collaborative security solutions for the Arctic region. With each Coffee Talk session, the center moves closer to achieving its mission of enhancing security and resilience in the Arctic and beyond.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies
- TSC launches Women, Peace, and Security program TSC launches Women, Peace, and Security programdsca.adminTue, 03/26/2024 - 12:02            Story by Hannah SmithMarch is Women’s History Month. The Department of Defense theme for the observance is, “Women Who Have Made Great Achievements,” in recognition of the countless contributions women have made towards creating a positive opportunity for a brighter future.In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies is launching its Women, Peace, and Security program. The TSC WPS program recognizes the diverse roles women play as agents of change in preventing and resolving conflict in the Arctic region.“We celebrate the tremendous contributions of women across the Arctic, making it a more secure, peaceful, and prosperous region,” said Randy “Church” Kee, director of the Ted Stevens Center. “The Women, Peace, and Security program will highlight these stories in order to advance women’s and girls’ civic and political leadership across the Arctic region.”The 2023 U.S. National Strategy on WPS includes five lines of effort: Participation; Protection; Relief, Response, and Recovery; Integration and Institutionalization; and Partnerships.The TSC mission provides unique engagement opportunities to operationalize the National Strategy by strengthening institutional relationships with our allies and partners through collective efforts that reinforce women’s empowerment across each of these LOEs.“We have important work to do throughout the Department of Defense and within our Center to ensure that we exemplify a diverse organization that invests in our people and promotes the meaningful participation of women across the development, management and employment of the organization,” said Kee.By institutionalizing WPS across the defense and security sectors, we reinforce the rules-based international order by committing to an internationally recognized resolution alongside our allies and partners. Advancing WPS objectives strengthens institutional resilience, comprehensive campaigning, and operational success.While March marks the official launch of the WPS program, the Center has already made significant progress towards promoting partnerships to build capacity and elevate the WPS agenda throughout our foreign policy and security cooperation efforts.All TSC courses and workshops strive for a minimum of 33% or one third female participation to create critical mass for more inclusive dialogue on broader security concerns. The School of Arctic and Climate Security Studies was proud to progress towards an average of 25% female participation in courses, closing in on 83% execution of that goal.“An important component of the TSC Women, Peace, and Security program is intersectionality. We must be inclusive of Arctic Indigenous perspectives to enable a more comprehensive, equitable, and context-driven understanding of security in the Arctic,” explained Kee. “The TSC is well position to seamlessly link climate security, Indigenous perspectives, and Women, Peace, and Security.”The TSC Women, Peace, and Security program will be a Center-wide effort with contributions from each of the four divisions. In the coming year, interested participants can expect webinars, research, and articles dedicated to Women, Peace, and Security in the Arctic region.Observances like Women’s History Month provide an important platform to amplify the stories of women across the Arctic. The TSC WPS program will make this a permanent and ongoing effort: to recognize, promote, and facilitate the contributions of women to the enduring peace and security of the Arctic region.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies          DSCU
- 17 students complete international partner course at Wright-Patt 17 students complete international partner course at Wright-Pattdsca.adminTue, 03/26/2024 - 11:34            WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – Defense Security Cooperation University’s School of Security Cooperation Studies recently taught an in-resident international partner foreign military sales training class for 17 students representing nine different countries and NATO.DSCU’s School of Security Cooperation Studies is located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.SSCS’s International Partner Security Cooperation Logistics and Finance Course spans the full spectrum of security cooperation, including legislation and policy, technology transfer/end-use monitoring, the FMS process, acquisition, logistics and financial management.The 15-day in-residence course involves a robust field studies program to expose students to American culture, as well as the inner workings of the U.S. government at federal, state and local levels. This class had an opportunity to engage with local officials in Beavercreek, including Mayor Don Adams.DSCU strengthens relationships with partner nations by working together to provide education, training and tailored institutional-capacity building. The university supports Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s mission through holistic solutions that develop and advance responsible governance and the intellectual interoperability and synergistic ties between the U.S. and its allies and partners.Founded in 1976 as the Defense Institute of Security Assistance Management, SSCS is the focal point of foreign military sales education for all Department of Defense and international partner personnel engaged in managing security cooperation programs.For more information about DSCU, visit Defense Security Cooperation University (dscu.edu).          DSCU
- Defense Logistics Agency Strengthens Allies, International Security Through Foreign Military Sales Defense Logistics Agency Strengthens Allies, International Security Through Foreign Military Salesdsca.adminTue, 03/12/2024 - 11:41            By Beth Reece , Defense Logistics AgencyA program that transfers America's defense equipment to international partners gives the U.S. and its allies an upper hand on the battlefield."We want to be interoperable with our NATO partners, and the Foreign Military Sales program allows us to work succinctly and without delay in a time of crisis," said Andre Hinson, FMS account manager for the Defense Logistics Agency and liaison to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency. FMS is authorized by the Foreign Assistance Act and Arms Export Control Act. The U.S. Department of State oversees the program while DSCA administers it on behalf of the Defense Department. Most individual cases are implemented by the Army, Navy and Air Force as they transfer service-managed platforms like F-16 fighter aircraft and M777 howitzers to global FMS customers. DSCA and the services then lean on DLA to meet international needs for repair parts that keep FMS equipment running. South Korea and Canada are among the allied partners that DLA supports through FMS, but current crises in Ukraine and Israel also drive some of the agency's current FMS work. "A large amount of our support is toward sustainment and material readiness for both ground and aviation equipment in those regions," said Hinson.  Though repair parts make up the bulk of DLA's participation in FMS cases managed at service levels, two DLA entities manage cases of their own: DLA Disposition Services and the Defense Logistics Information Service. DLA Disposition Services provides excess material to eligible countries on an as-is, where-is basis. Typical examples include medical equipment, office equipment, basic field equipment, clothing and spare parts. Excess tactical vehicles may also be transferred if available.  DLIS provides foreign customers with coding and cataloging data for DLA-managed items, as well. The information shared ranges from national stock numbers and maximum-release quantities to item description and weight. DLIS can also provide tailored information depending on nations' unique needs. "DLIS has assisted countries that are looking for alternate items when the current NSN they have is no longer available, for example," said Ray Woods, also a DLA FMS account manager and DSCA liaison. "They can even help get cataloging data translated and provide maintenance instructions. That type of support has been significant for Ukraine."  Requesting SupportFor an FMS case to begin, a letter of request must be sent from the eligible foreign nation's embassy to the U.S. Embassy. Each case is unique and may require discussions to develop requirements and an actionable agreement. The State Department helps determine what the requester may or may not have. From there, requests are filtered down to a case manager through DSCA, and the case manager works with the nation to build a letter of acceptance outlining the transaction, to include how much of an item the customer needs, when they want it and other terms.  All requests include the amount the buyer will spend and indicate whether the partner knows what they'll buy. A request that outlines which items will be purchased is known as a Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Agreement, which helps DLA project future demand and invest in additional stock.  "With CLSSA, they're telling us, 'I'm going to buy these things and I'm going to give you 30% upfront to use toward my future purchases,'" Woods said.  Requests that don't identify the specific items needed are non-CLSSA, or blanket-order cases for designated timeframes. Customers are aware such orders can take longer to fulfill, Woods said, adding that the agency tracks material availability to measure how well it meets needs. The goal for CLSSA items is 85% although it's currently at 89% for the four major weapons systems DLA supports in Israel.  "Currently, non-CLSSA has a material availability of 65.8%, which is very good for items we do not demand plan for," he continued.  Hinson pointed out that DLA can sometimes overcome availability obstacles, especially for urgent needs."When there's been an aircraft on the ground that a particular nation needed for mission support, for example, we were able to move material out much quicker than normal, even within 30 days."  In cases where foreign partners use equipment U.S. forces no longer use, FMS requests include an agreement that DLA will continue to support sustainment needs despite low demands.  "If parts are no longer in our inventory, DLA item managers will work with industry to procure them, but the customer understands the lead time for those items can be potentially long and they're willing to wait if it's not a readiness priority," said Woods.  Orders for FMS items enter DLA through the same automated systems used by U.S. military customers but include a unique code that identifies the buyer as an FMS customer. Woods added that DLA charges FMS customers the same it does other organizations, but the customer relies on a third-party logistics provider to pick up material from DLA locations and ship it internationally.  Foreign partners are also required to use items as specified in the agreement and must dispose of material on their own."We constantly remind countries that once items have been received, they can't return them to us," said Hinson. However, DSCA's Worldwide Warehouse Redistribution Service allows FMS customers to resell excess spare parts to other allied partners.  "So if one nation purchases five widgets but only needs two, it can make the other three available through WWRS," he continued.  Monthly and quarterly meetings with international customers help make DLA's support successful, Woods added. Discussions focus on whether the agency is doing enough to meet sustainment requirements and possible supply discrepancies.  "The countries have invested in their supply chains by sending what we consider security liaisons or senior logisticians here to the United States on two-year rotations, so those are the representatives that we're in touch with on a continual basis," said Hinson. "They also have points of contact at our major subordinate commands to resolve issues as they surface."  The benefits of DLA's participation in FMS surpass interoperability. Larger orders for similar items help the agency achieve better prices for all customers while also supporting U.S. foreign policy, said Woods. "We're not the only nation with a robust supply chain. If we don't stay in close ties and collaboration with our NATO countries, they have the option to go elsewhere to procure sustainment for their equipment," said Hinson, pointing to adversaries such as China. "But any time we share parts for weapons systems that are similar or the same as those used by our allies, we're more effective as a team."          DLA          DSCU
- TSC delegation strengthens international security cooperation at Arctic Frontiers 2024 TSC delegation strengthens international security cooperation at Arctic Frontiers 2024dsca.adminFri, 02/23/2024 - 12:10            Story by Amber KurkaTROMSØ, Norway -- In a resolute effort to advance the objectives outlined in the National Strategy for the Arctic Region, members of the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies converged at Arctic Frontiers 2024 in Tromsø, Norway, from Jan. 28 to Feb. 1, 2024. This strategic gathering served as a pivotal platform for the TSC delegation to engage in panel discussions, breakout group events, and networking sessions, all aimed at fostering collaborative relationships among military and civilian security practitioners, directly supporting the strategic vision outlined in the National Strategy for the Arctic Region.Led by Randy “Church” Kee, Director of the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, the team emphasized the significance of embracing a local community approach to Arctic security during the "Big Picture session on Arctic Security and Local Resilience" panel discussion. Kee underscored the strategic importance of forging partnerships with local communities, integrating local customs and traditions, and leveraging Indigenous Knowledge Systems to enhance security resilience in the Arctic, consistent with the principles outlined in the National Strategy for the Arctic Region.Panel discussions at Arctic Frontiers delved into various topics, including geopolitical shifts, rising military presence, and NATO expansion, while stressing the necessity of resilient communities in the high North. Dr. Haliehana Stepetin, Assistant Professor for the School of Arctic and Climate Security Studies at the TSC, hosted a panel on "Perspectives of Indigenous Women on Human and Environmental Security in the Arctic," highlighting the diverse experiences of climate change and the vital role of Indigenous Knowledge in crafting climate solutions.Dr. Kelsey Frazier, Acting Associate Director for Research and Analysis at the TSC, shared insights during the panel event titled "Navigating a Changing Arctic: Innovations for Sustainable Maritime Development, Part 3," where she emphasized the importance of understanding surface conditions in the Arctic for sustainable development. Additionally, Frazier appeared on a podcast to amplify the discourse on Arctic security cooperation.During the event, Tracy Smith, Deputy Dean of SACSS, and Terrence Shanigan, Deputy Associate Director for the Strategic Engagement Division, engaged with members from Arctic Voice and Canadian and Greenlandic partners to explore potential collaboration opportunities in advocating for security cooperation across their extensive networks.As Arctic Frontiers 2024 concluded, TSC leaders reaffirmed the center’s commitment to fostering international security cooperation and network building in the Arctic region. Through collaborative efforts with Allies and partners, the TSC aims to strengthen resilience, promote stability, and uphold shared security interests in the dynamic Arctic environment.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies          DSCU
- Strengthening international security cooperation: Mongolian Armed Forces visit Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies Strengthening international security cooperation: Mongolian Armed Forces visit Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studiesdsca.adminWed, 02/21/2024 - 10:41            By Amber Kurka, Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security StudiesJOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- In another significant stride toward increased international security cooperation, Colonel T. Galbadrakh, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, made a pivotal visit to the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies on Feb. 14.Welcomed by Randy “Church” Kee, the Director of the Stevens Center, and other TSC leaders and staff, Galbadrakh's visit marked a significant milestone in enhancing ties between Mongolia and the United States, particularly in the realm of defense and security.The visit, coordinated through the National Guard's State Partnership Program (SPP), underscores the program's evolution into a vital instrument for bolstering U.S. security cooperation on the global stage.Originating from a U.S. European Command initiative in 1991, the SPP has burgeoned over its 30-year history, encompassing 88 partnerships with nations worldwide. Alaska and Mongolia formalized their partnership under the SPP in 2003, laying the groundwork for enduring collaboration in defense and security affairs.“Alaska is at the intersection of the Indo-Pacific and the Arctic. Like Mongolia, our location is strategic, and the importance of our security partnership cannot be understated,” explained Kee.During the visit, discussions between Galbadrakh and TSC leadership delved into avenues through which the center could extend educational opportunities to members of the Mongolian Armed Forces. Emphasizing the importance of innovation in enabling decisive multidomain operations, both parties explored strategies to harness the expertise housed within the TSC to address contemporary security challenges effectively.“Mongolia and the United States have many shared security interests. By facilitating the Mongolian Armed Forces’ participation in our courses, we expand our network of like-minded security practitioners from the Indo-Pacific to gain insights about the developing strategic challenges of the Arctic region,” said Kee.Central to the mission of the TSC is the establishment of robust, sustainable networks of security leaders, both domestically and internationally. Anchored in promoting and conducting focused research on Arctic security, the center aims to advance DoD security priorities in the region. The center's School for Arctic and Climate Security Studies is dedicated to offering courses and fellowship opportunities to nations with Arctic interests, reflecting its commitment to fostering a cadre of alumni focused on security cooperation.“Our international course participants are essential to developing a shared understanding of the contemporary security environment. Their perspectives are invaluable to address current and emerging security concerns,” continued Kee.While Mongolia may not be geographically situated in the Arctic, its strategic partnership with the United States underscores a shared interest in ensuring stability and security in the region. Galbadrakh's visit to the TSC served as the inaugural step in welcoming the Mongolian Armed Forces to engage in the center's programs, ranging from courses to research papers and fellowship initiatives.“Central to this relationship with the Mongolian Armed Forces is our enduring partnership with the Daniel K. Inouye Center for Asia Pacific Security Studies. While the Mongolian Armed Forces are well familiar to the outstanding programs on the Inouye Center, they now have the benefit of two DoD regional centers working seamlessly from the Pacific into the Arctic,” said Kee.Looking ahead, both parties expressed enthusiasm for fortifying this burgeoning relationship, integrating the Mongolian Armed Forces into the international network of security practitioners cultivated by the TSC. Together, they aim to enhance interoperability in the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, contributing to a stable, rules-based order.As the world navigates an evolving security landscape, partnerships forged through initiatives like the SSP reaffirm the enduring commitment to collective security and cooperation. The visit of Galbadrakh and his delegation to the center signifies a pivotal moment in advancing these shared objectives, underscoring the importance of education, research, and collaboration in safeguarding the interests of nations in the Arctic and beyond.          Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies          Security Cooperation          Arctic Center