Deterrence in the circumpolar North depends on credible warfighting capabilities. But shooting down a missile or launching a fighter jet takes energy, materials, and know-how. This preview of the 2026 Anchorage Security and Defense Dialogue brings together defense infrastructure, space, and innovation experts to explain how supply and kill chains converge in the Arctic.

Nearly 80 years ago, a British expedition discovered the battered remains of a giant fossil on the peak of an Arctic island. Unable to take it with them, they snapped some pictures, took some bones and left the fossil to be ravaged by the icy winds and rain. Little did they know it would be found again decades later and turn out to be the first of its kind and a giant among its peers.

When the Polar Night Nitric Oxide (PolarNOx) experiment sounding rocket blasted off from Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska earlier this year, traveling at more than 2,400 mph into the upper atmosphere, it carried equipment designed at Virginia Tech to measure nitric oxide high above the Arctic.

The Alaska Defense Forum brings together military leaders, government officials, defense experts, industry representatives and community stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities shaping Alaska’s role in national defense. Discussions will focus on Arctic security, strategic deterrence, emerging technologies, military readiness, infrastructure and investment, as well as the quality-of-life issues affecting service members, military families and defense communities. The forum is organized by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, the Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation and the Association of Defense Communities.

The Arctic Circle Assembly, organized by Arctic Circle, brings together government officials, business leaders, researchers, policy experts, community representatives, and international organizations to discuss Arctic affairs. Topics include geopolitics, security, international cooperation, economic development, energy and natural resources, shipping and infrastructure, scientific research, environmental change, and issues affecting Arctic communities.

Learn about the INSTAAR measurement program & tour the radiocarbon & stable isotope labs. This is part of Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research’s (INSTAAR) 75th Anniversary seminars.

Hosted by the American Geophysical Union, the 2026 AGU Annual Meeting covers research across the Earth and space sciences. Its Arctic-focused sessions will feature research on sea ice, permafrost, glaciers, oceans, atmospheric conditions, ecosystems, and freshwater systems, as well as the broader effects of Arctic change.

The Anchorage Security and Defense Dialogue (ASDD), hosted by the Ted Stevens Center for Arctic Security Studies, brings together military leaders, government officials, policymakers, researchers, industry representatives, and international partners to discuss security issues affecting the Arctic. The dialogue focuses on topics such as defense capabilities, homeland security, military readiness, technology, infrastructure, and cooperation among Arctic nations and allies. Through presentations, panel discussions, and working sessions, participants share information, discuss emerging challenges, and identify opportunities for coordination on Arctic security and defense priorities.

Early registration for ASDD 2026 will open in June, and it is by invitation only. This event is not open to the media.  Due to the size constraints of the venue, early registration is encouraged. If you would like more information, please contact us at TSC-Engagements@groups.af.mil.

Hosted by the Sitka Sound Science Center, Sitka WhaleFest brings together scientists, educators, artists, conservation leaders, and community members to explore marine ecosystems, ocean conservation, and coastal culture through public presentations, wildlife experiences, educational programming, and community events focused on the North Pacific environment.

SAVE THE DATE! The Joint (AC)3 - MOSAiC Conference 2027 (JAMC27) offers a forum for open, multi-disciplinary scientific exchange on the overarching theme of "Drivers and Impacts of a Changing Arctic." The international polar research community is invited to present and discuss scientific results achieved over the past decade, including findings from (AC)3, MOSAiC, and other Arctic research activities. Conference goals are to synthesize recent advances, inform future research actions, and enhance societal uptake of research outcomes. Abstract submission will open in October 2026.

Hosted by the Arctic Council as part of the Kingdom of Denmark’s Chairship program, the Arctic Biodiversity Summit will bring together scientists, policymakers, Indigenous Peoples, youth leaders, and other Arctic stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on biodiversity conservation across the Arctic region. The summit is intended to serve as a strategic platform for advancing knowledge exchange, supporting sustainable development, and helping transform scientific and Indigenous knowledge into action-oriented policy and conservation efforts focused on protecting Arctic ecosystems and biodiversity for future generations.