How is the Northern Sea Route Protected?
By Ali Askari, analyst, especially for “Sangar”
For Russia, the Northern Sea Route (NSR) is one of the key priorities of national transport and economic policy. This is reflected in strategic documents — from the Strategy for the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation and Ensuring National Security until 2035 (approved by Presidential Decree No. 645 of October 26, 2020) to the Action Plan for the Development of the NSR Infrastructure (approved by Government Order No. 3120-r of December 21, 2022).
In this context, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation are prepared to defend national sovereignty, suppressing any provocations or violations within the framework of international law and domestic legislation.
In August 2025, President Vladimir Putin, during a meeting with nuclear industry workers and scientists, noted that one of Russia’s direct military advantages lies in the fact that its strategic submarines “go under the ice of the Arctic Ocean and disappear from radars.” Considering the strategic importance of the NSR, this ensures its reliable protection by the Northern Fleet.
This is confirmed by the ongoing measures aimed at ensuring the security of the NSR, countering terrorism, and protecting civilian vessels and undersea communications.
For example, during the Russian Navy’s operational exercise July Storm (July 2025), held in the waters of the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, air defense and missile defense units practiced actions under emergency conditions, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles. To ensure necessary safety measures, residents of neighboring countries were notified in advance, and access to the exercise area was strictly controlled.
The development of Russia’s military infrastructure on the Franz Josef Land archipelago and the New Siberian Islands also has a defensive character, primarily aimed at protecting the economic interests of the Russian Federation. At the same time, Moscow has no intention of militarizing the region.
