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

Abstract : The gradual retreat of polar sea ice, combined with an expected increase in human activity -- shipping traffic, oil and gas exploration, and tourism in the Arctic region -- could 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 DoD's report. GAO assessed the extent to which the following were accomplished: (1) DoD's 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 DoD's Arctic Report and related documents and interviewed DoD and U.S. Coast Guard officials. GAO recommends that DoD develop a risk-based investment strategy and timeline for developing Arctic capabilities needed in the near-term; and establish a forum with the Coast Guard to identify collaborative Arctic capability investments over the long-term. DoD and the Department of Homeland Security generally agreed with GAO's recommendations.