East Michigan News

Chairman John Moolenaar and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party have raised concerns about China's increasing military research activities in the Arctic. They expressed these concerns in a letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

The lawmakers highlighted potential security risks posed by Chinese dual-use military research, particularly in Iceland and Norway. "Both the [People’s Republic of China] and Russia are expanding their military operations in the Arctic," they wrote. The region's strategic importance is underscored by its role as an operational zone for nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines and its position along critical air and missile routes.

The letter outlines several questions for Secretaries Austin and Blinken. These include inquiries about national security risks associated with Chinese research in Svalbard, Iceland, and Nordic locations like EISCAT, particularly regarding missile defense and submarine detection capabilities. It also asks about departmental engagements concerning private land sales in Svalbard and discussions with Nordic governments regarding dual-use research concerns.

Moolenaar and Krishnamoorthi emphasized the need for collaboration with allies to counter this perceived threat effectively. The letter acknowledges ongoing efforts to address these challenges but seeks further clarity on steps that can be taken to limit Chinese access to sensitive technologies in the Arctic.

Further details on this issue can be found in Newsweek or by viewing the full text of the lawmakers' letter.