Operation POLAR DAGGER activities set to begin Aug. 15

Photo By Bridget Donovan | A CH-47 Chinook performs a pinnacle landing in Alaska. SOCNORTH executes POLAR DAGGER annually to demonstrate Special Operations Forces’ ability to rapidly deploy to the Arctic. The training and engagements allow SOF forces to strengthen civil-military partnerships, improve readiness, and enhance community and Joint Force interoperability in the Arctic, a region critical to homeland defense. (Courtesy photo)  

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO, UNITED STATES

08.07.2026

Story by Bridget Donovan 

U.S. Special Operations Command North

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. --U.S. military assets and personnel will conduct training and community engagement activities near Nome, Point Hope, St. Lawrence Island, Wales, Tin City and Little Diomede Island, Alaska, August 15-31, 2026, as part of Operation POLAR DAGGER.

There will be localized military activity in airspace, land, and maritime domains across the coastal regions, which may result in a minor increase in military presence in these remote communities.

No access to public use areas will be restricted, and activities will strictly respect local customs, the safety of personnel, and wildlife in the area. All training and engagements occur at designated sites and are fully coordinated with local and tribal authorities.

SOCNORTH executes POLAR DAGGER annually to demonstrate Special Operations Forces’ ability to rapidly deploy to the Arctic. The training and engagements allow SOF forces to strengthen civil-military partnerships, improve readiness, and enhance community and Joint Force interoperability in the Arctic, a region critical to homeland defense.

While Operation TUNDRA MERLIN integrates joint air and land capabilities to enhance deterrence and readiness in the Alaskan theater, POLAR DAGGER complements those efforts by exercising SOF ability to operate in the Arctic alongside joint and interagency partners, reinforcing a layered approach to homeland defense.   Please refer to our official page for cleared and released imagery: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/polaracts

Please direct media inquiries to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Ross, SOCNORTH Public Affairs, [phone], mailto:[e-mail] or U.S. Navy LCDR Egdanis Torres Sierra, [phone], mailto:[e-mail]

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• Date Taken: 08.07.2026
• Date Posted: 08.11.2026 12:49
• Story ID: 572123
• Location: COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO, US