Arctic
Saab underwater robots in Russian Arctic surveillance system
Maria Karlsson Image generated by AI
An investigation by SVT and international media reveals that underwater robots from Saab have been used in Russia's secret Harmoni surveillance system in the Arctic. The robots were delivered to Russian customers until 2018 in compliance with export rules but ended up with the Russian military. Russia has also produced copies of the technology.
Arctic research center closes due to NSF budget cuts
Reported by AI
A long-standing Arctic research facility in Alaska is shutting down after severe budget reductions to the National Science Foundation under the Trump administration. The 56 percent cut has forced the closure of the Barrow Arctic Science Consortium, impacting decades of climate and environmental studies. Scientists warn this could hinder critical research on a warming planet.
Scientists uncover nitrogen-fixing bacteria beneath Arctic sea ice
An international team of researchers has discovered that nitrogen-fixing bacteria thrive beneath Arctic sea ice, challenging previous assumptions about nutrient availability in the region. This process, driven by non-cyanobacteria, could boost algae growth and enhance the ocean's CO2 absorption as ice melts. The findings suggest a need to revise models of Arctic ecological changes amid climate warming.
Germany and Iceland agree on closer military cooperation
Germany and Iceland have signed a letter of intent to deepen their bilateral defense cooperation. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for a stronger NATO presence in the Arctic amid Russian activities. The cooperation includes surveillance and protection of critical infrastructure.