Cold Weather Military Training

Photos of military personnel training in snowy, arctic conditions, focusing on survival skills, teamwork, and readiness for extreme environments.

Spc. Steven Candelaril, a Soldier with the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment clears snow from a potential arctic tent site during the D-Series competition on Fort Drum, NY, Jan. 18, 2024. The weeklong competition harkens back to the famous divisional maneuvers the 10th Mountain Division held on Camp Hale, Colorado, in 1944.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Diluigi, a combat engineer with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, provides security during a platoon live-fire maneuver range in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 20, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

Spc. Steven Candelaril, a Soldier with the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment clears snow from a potential arctic tent site during the D-Series competition on Fort Drum, NY, Jan. 18, 2024. The weeklong competition harkens back to the famous divisional maneuvers the 10th Mountain Division held on Camp Hale, Colorado, in 1944.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, prepares to detonate an explosive charge during a demolition range near Setermoen, Norway, March 31, 2023. Marines are deployed to Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 23.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin Pickel (left), a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense responder cuts Sgt. Eatrico Recalde (right), an explosive ordnance disposal technician with 2d Combat Logistics Battalion, 2d Marine Division, out of his mission oriented protective posture (MOPP) suit during a simulated chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear scenario in Setermoen, Norway March 24, 2023. Cold weather CBRN training is designed to increase Marines confidence and readiness in their abilities to combat extreme cold weather conditions.

U.S. Air Force tactical air control party specialists assigned to Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron pull pulk sleds while cross country skiing along the Denali Highway, Alaska, during Operation Agipen 2, Jan. 29, 2023. Agipen 2 was an unsupported, sustained cold-weather operation designed to validate equipment and previous arctic training in austere conditions. During the multi-day training exercise the 3rd ASOS special warfare Airmen conducted a long-distance, overland ski movement that included pulling individual pulk sleds by incorporating cross country skiing and skijoring.

Pfc. Anthony DiLeonardo, 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division launches a Raven drone April 2, 2023, during exercise Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 in the Yukon Training Area, Alaska. (Army photo/John Pennell)

Marines conduct a patrol during the final comprehensive bilateral force-on-force training evolution March 2-3 during Exercise Forest Light 13-3 at the Hokkaido-Dai Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan. Forest Light is a semi-annual; bilateral engagement that enhances the partnership between the U.S. and Japan, solidifies regional security agreements, increases interoperability of forces and improves individual and unit-level skills in a bilateral environment.

U.S. Marines with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division conduct a simulated raid during exercise Cold Response (CR) 2010 Feb. 26, 2010, in Norway. CR 2010 is a Norwegian-sponsored exercise with the Norwegian armed forces focused on cold weather maritime/amphibious operations, interoperability of expeditionary forces, special and ground operations. Participants include forces from Great Britain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Austria and other NATO partners.

DM-ST-87-10883. Subject Operation/Series: COLD WINTER Country: Norway (NOR)

U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve perform a simulated reload on a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 23, 2024. The HIMARS weapon system is a valuable asset in arctic conditions due to its exceptional mobility, which allows for rapid deployment and maneuverability across challenging terrain, coupled with its precision strike capabilities, enabling effective engagement of targets. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. militarys capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. Marine Corps

030115-A-2442C-106. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARDIAN II Base: Heritage Drop Zone State: Kosovo

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, prepare charges during a demolition range while deployed with Marine Rotational Forces Europe (MRF-E) 23.1 in Setermoen, Norway, March 31, 2023. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class. Brandon Pardo, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, practices security tactics during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 7, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

Staff Sgt. Benjamin Reynolds, 891st Missile Security Forces Squadron response force leader, crouches in rotor wash during a field training exercise at Turtle Mountain State Forest, N.D., Feb. 14, 2018. During the exercise, 91st Security Forces Group defenders coordinated simulated medical evacuations with two 54th Helicopter Squadron UH-1N Iroquois.

A U.S. Marine with II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) navigates snowy terrain during a snowmobile course in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 24 at Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 20, 2024. II MEF Marines are scheduled to participate in exercise Nordic Response 24, which is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation under challenging Arctic conditions, in high-intensity warfighting, including rugged terrain and extreme cold weather. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. Marine Corps

U.S. Army infantrymen with Blackfoot Company, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, hold security with their M240B machine gun while clearing opposition forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, April 1, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere.

University of Alaska Army ROTC cadets maneuver to their objective during an air assault training event at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 2, 2022. Following a tactical air insertion, the Seawolf Detachment cadets maneuvered across snow-covered terrain, assaulted opposition forces, secured their objective, and concluded with an air exfiltration. Alaska Army National Guard aviators from the 1-207th Aviation Regiment provided air support for the training. The AKARNGs General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to hone its operational interoperability and maintain readiness for a wide range of state and federal missions.

030220-M-2796K-002. Subject Operation/Series: FOREST LIGHT II 2003 Base: Camp Engaru State: Hokkaido Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division trek across snowy terrain at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Jan. 22, 2022. Marines with 3/3 conducted winter survival training, winter terrain mobility training, and built defensive positions as a part of Mountain Warfare Training Exercise 2-22 in order to increase combat lethality and readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Christian Tofteroo)

U.S. Army Spc. Timothy Crumpler, assigned to C Co. 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, stand guard as the opposing force during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 17, 2024. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

Soldiers from the 2d Battalion, 1ST Infantry Regiment, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, observe their sector of fire as they hold their fighting positions while assaulting the village of Simpsonville, Alaska during NORTHERN EDGE '98, an annual Joint Chiefs of STAFF winter exercise involving air and ground units of all services. The men are wearing winter combat gear, carrying M-16s as well as MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Simulation) equipment on their bodies as well as on the helmets. The MILES receivers will beep when targeted by a weapon equipped with the MILES laser emitter, indicating a kill or wounding of the wearer. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN EDGE '98 Base: Fort Greely State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force tactical air control party specialists with Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron prepare their gear and equipment for the days cross country ski movement along the Denali Highway, Alaska, during Operation Agipen 2, Jan. 29, 2023. Agipen 2 was an unsupported, sustained cold-weather operation designed to validate equipment and previous arctic training in austere conditions. During the multi-day training exercise the 3rd ASOS special warfare Airmen conducted a long-distance, overland ski movement that included pulling individual pulk sleds by incorporating cross country skiing and skijoring.

DM-ST-87-10912. Subject Operation/Series: COLD WINTER Country: Norway (NOR)

A U.S. Army paratroopersassigned to 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, fortifies a remote firing position during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Alaska, April 3, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, walk down range to set up and prime explosives during a Live Fire and Maneuver Range in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. CLB-6 is in Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 24.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners. Marine Corps

U.S. Army 1st Class Philip Blackwell assigned to 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, packs up his parachute after conducting airborne operations as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 8, 2024. JPMRC 24-02 depends on joint, multi-component and multinational partners to succeed, including U.S. Air Force air and ground crews, U.S. Marines, and international military participants from more than five countries, a testament to the realism and authenticity of its world-class training capability. Army

Airmen assigned to the 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron Fuels Management Flight work with Marines at a forward area refueling point in support of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts March 18, 2011, at Yamagata Airport, Japan.

A U.S. Army Soldier from the 20th Special Forces Group, Massachusetts Army National Guard, prepares to create a shelter during Northern Strike 22-1, at Camp Grayling, Mich., Jan. 22, 2022. The winter iteration of the Northern Strike exercise series, known as Winter Strike, is held annually in northern Michigan during the coldest part of the year, so visiting units can train in subarctic conditions. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Tristan D. Viglianco)

U.S. Marine Scout Sniper Aims an M40A3 Sniper Rifle While Camouflaged in the Snow

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, prepare to fire an M2 .50 caliber machine gun during a live-fire range while deployed with Marine Rotational Forces Europe (MRF-E) 23.1 in Setermoen, Norway, April 2, 2023. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

A member of an arctic research station directs a converted DC-3 aircraft after landing near Ice Camp Opal, one of three research stations established on the polar ice cap during the Arctic Research and Environmental Acoustic (AREA) program. AREA '85 is a Navy-sponsored expedition to study oceanography, acoustics, geophysics, communications and submarine warfare in the polar environment. Subject Operation/Series: AREA '85 Country: Arctic

040225-F-4691W-026. Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Pacaf

030115-A-2442C-017. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARDIAN II Base: Heritage Drop Zone State: Kosovo

Members of the 123rd Weather Flight participate in avalanche assessment training February 10, 2018 at Mount Hood National Forest, Ore. Avalanche training helps the weather flight members assess whether conditions are safe for military movement in austere conditions.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew Mendez, a native of Texas and a combat engineer with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, detonates C-4 during a demolition range in preparation for NATO-exercise Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 25, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin Pickel (left), a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense responder cuts Sgt. Eatrico Recalde (right), an explosive ordnance disposal technician with 2d Combat Logistics Battalion, 2d Marine Division, out of his mission oriented protective posture (MOPP) suit during a simulated chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear scenario in Setermoen, Norway March 24, 2023. Cold weather CBRN training is designed to increase Marines confidence and readiness in their abilities to combat extreme cold weather conditions.

Sgt. Jack Conway, an infantryman from Charlie Troop, 3-71 Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, progresses through the ski obstacle course during Exercise Arctic Forge in Sodankyla Garrison, Finland on Feb. 21, 2023. Exercise Arctic Forge 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa led umbrella exercise that leverages the host-nation exercises Defense Exercise North in Finland, and exercise Joint Viking in Norway, taking place Feb. 16 through March 17, 2023, focused on building capabilities and cooperation in support of the U.S. Army's Arctic Strategy.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division conduct a troop movement during cold weather training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Jan. 28, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners.

U.S. Army Soldiers with 3rd Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade, 18th Airborne Corps, supporting 3rd Infantry Division, conduct counter - unmanned aerial system training near Camp Tapa, Estonia, Feb. 10, 2024. As part of their exercise, the Task Force Marne Soldiers learn how to use anti-drone countermeasures, such as a dronebuster. The 3rd Infantry Divisions mission in Europe is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent, working alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe. Army

Capt. Jack Fine (left) and Senior Airman Sergio Barcena-Turner, both assigned to the 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron, simulate a patrol March 3, 2014, at Sixmile Lake, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The base is home to 3rd ASOS joint terminal attack controllers, whose primary responsibility is to advise the ground commander on proper utilization of airpower.

Army servicemen in winter camo somewhere in the mountains.

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 19, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

Hands of person holding rifle with telescopic sight outdoors, New Zealand

Spc. Andrew Harvey, a native of San Diego, Calif., realizes he still has hours of climbing ahead, as he stares up at the mountain peaks overlooking Afghanistans Korengal Valley, during Operation Viper Shake, April 21. Harvey is an infantryman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division.

A U.S. Army Soldier from 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, leaves Donnelly Drop Zone after airborne operations as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb 8, 2024. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Kenneth Chee, the staff logistics officer of the 87th Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, and Capt. Kevin Dulay, the staff signal officer for the battalion, race to the headquarters in their protective masks during a drill at Karliki, Poland, Jan. 19, 2024. The 87th DSSB organized the training event to ensure Soldiers are ready to rapidly respond to protect themselves and continue operations even in chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threat environments. These Soldiers are deployed to Europe to assure allies and support multinational training to deter aggression in the region.

030220-M-2796K-018. Subject Operation/Series: FOREST LIGHT II 2003 Base: Camp Engaru State: Hokkaido Country: Japan (JPN)

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen are participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

An Air National Guard Security Forces specialist assigned to the 103rd Airlift Wing, Connecticut Air National Guard, participates in a cold-water immersion as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota, on January 18, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold-water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

Special Tactics Airmen assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, Detachment 1, also known as Deployment Cell or D-Cell, conduct troop movement across Camp Mad Bull during a training exercise at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Jan. 7, 2023. Based out of MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, D-Cell consists of 54 members across 15 job codes forming four agile teams, whose primary role is to bare base - to rapidly turn undeveloped locations into fully functional bases. The unit visited Alaska to train and test their capabilities in an arctic environment.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conducts an ice break drill that trains them to be able to get them selves out of freezing waters during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 10, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warfighting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands firm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. Marine Corps

USA, California, United States Marine Corps Scout / Snipers during mountain high angle sniper training in winter, Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport

DA-ST-87-08522. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers from the 88th Readiness Division prepare their gear at the Whitetail Ridge Ski Hill during snowshoe training at Fort McCoy, Wis. on Jan. 21, 2024. Despite the forecasted frigid temperatures, members of HHD Company assembled at the installation's Whitetail Ridge Ski Area on one of the coldest days of the year to train on the use and familiarization of snowshoes and cold weather gear.

A U.S. Marine falls while skiing during Korea Viper 24.1 at Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea, Feb. 14, 2024. The training teaches Marines multiple skiing techniques, mountain movement, and survival skills in an austere cold weather environment. In its first iteration, Korea Viper demonstrates the ROK-US Marine Corps ability to respond decisively in the region as a singular, unified force while strengthening relationships and trust between the two allies. The Marine is with 2d Battalion, 7th Marines. 2/7 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Marine Corps

A member of Co. B, 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Div. positions an M-252 81mm mortar round for firing as his fellow soldiers prepare for the blast during CALFEX '90, a joint service, combined arms live-fire exercise. Subject Operation/Series: CALFEX '90 Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska(AK) Country: United States Of America(USA)

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 20th Special Forces Group, Massachusetts Army National Guard, don their gear before snowmobile training during Northern Strike 22-1, at Camp Grayling, Mich., Jan. 22, 2022. The winter iteration of the Northern Strike exercise series, known as Winter Strike, is held annually in northern Michigan during the coldest part of the year, so visiting units can train in subarctic conditions. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Tristan D. Viglianco)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ryan Walburn, the electrical systems non-commissioned officer in charge assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, Detachment 1, also known as Deployment Cell or D-Cell, maintains security during a training exercise at Camp Mad Bull on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Jan. 10, 2023. Based out of MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, D-Cell consists of 54 members across 15 job codes forming four agile teams, whose primary role is to bare base - to rapidly turn undeveloped locations into fully functional bases. The unit visited Alaska to train and test their capabilities in an arctic environment.

An M-198 155mm medium towed howitzer of the 3rd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, is concealed with arctic camouflage during Exercise Cold Winter '83. Subject Operation/Series: COLD WINTER '83 Country: Norway (NOR)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cody Cunningham, a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) operator with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, performs a simulated reload on a HIMARS during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 23, 2024. HIMARS training enhances coordination between ground combat and aviation elements, establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations for efficient processes during rapid insertions and reloads. This training ensures the seamless integration of HIMARS into both ground and air operations, fostering a unified approach that enhances overall mission effectiveness in dynamic scenarios. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. militarys capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. Marine Corps

Soldiers from the 642nd Engineer Company work to clear fallen trees. Numerous trees were damaged from heavy ice buildup following an ice storm Jan. 8-9. Fort Drum personnel are working around the clock in support of communities crippled by the recent ice storm. Soldiers are augmenting community clean-up efforts and providing trucks, electrical power, mobile kitchens, heaters, and more than 60,000 sand bags. Base: Fort Drum State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Marine with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, practices walking with snowshoes at the Allied Training Center here, March 9. Company K was in Norway, March 4-24, for Exercise Cold Response 2012. The multinational invitational event focused on rehearsing conventional-warfare operations in winter conditions and exercising interoperability with the NATO allies.

040404-F-0848C-002. Base: Elmendorf Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: PACAF

U.S. Air Force weapons loaders, Master Sgt. Steve Przyojski, Tech. Sgt. Adam Pawlicki and Master Sgt. Tom Gonzalez (from left), assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, brave the cold and snow to unload a training Air Intercept Missile, referred to as the AIM-9, Jan. 24, 2022. The 180FW performs daily training, conducted in realistic environments under realistic circumstances, ensuring our forces maintain the highest levels of proficiency and readiness for worldwide deployment. U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Beth Holliker.

U.S. Air Force tactical air control party specialists assigned to Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron prepare to break camp after spending the night along the Denali Highway, Alaska, during Operation Agipen 2, Jan. 30, 2023. Agipen 2 was an unsupported, sustained cold-weather operation designed to validate equipment and previous arctic training in austere conditions. During the multi-day training exercise the 3rd ASOS special warfare Airmen conducted a long-distance, overland ski movement that included pulling individual pulk sleds by incorporating cross country skiing and skijoring.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Justin Dickison (left), a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) chief and Cpl. Dustin Pickel (right), a CBRN defense responder with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, begin the decontamination process during a simulated chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear scenario in Setermoen, Norway March 24, 2023. Cold weather CBRN training is designed to increase Marines confidence and readiness in their abilities to combat extreme cold weather conditions.

Red Army soldiers in a forest. The Winter War. 1939 by Anonymous /Russian State Film and Photo Archive, Krasnogorsk/1939/Photograph/Russia/History

Sustainment training, conducted by Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, includes rappel skills at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., March 5, 2023. Special equipment, such as climbing axes, sit harness, carabiners, and crampons, allows Soldiers to negotiate steep terrain and vertical obstacles that are otherwise impassable.

A 343rd Tactical Fighter Wing A-10A Thunderbolt II aircraft takes off during CALFEX '90, a joint service, combined arms live-fire exercise. The aircraft is equipped with an AN-ALQ 119 electronic countermeasures pod attached. Subject Operation/Series: CALFEX '90 Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska(AK) Country: United States Of America(USA)

U.S. Army Soldier ice climbs during sustainment training conducted by Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., March 5, 2023. Special equipment, such as climbing axes, sit harness, carabiners, and crampons, allows Soldiers to negotiate steep terrain and vertical obstacles that are otherwise impassable.

DA-ST-87-08582. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST Country: United States Of America (USA)

With a P-3 Orion aircraft patrolling overhead, the nuclear-powered submarine USS SEAHORSE (SSN-669) surfaces through the Arctic ice off of Alaska. Country: Unknown

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, set up a boring demolition charge during a demolition range near Setermoen, Norway, March 31, 2023. Marines are deployed to Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 23.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units take part in a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, WI.

Naval personnel stand by the sail structure of the nuclear-powered submarine USS GURNARD (SSN 662), which has broken through the Arctic ice off of Alaska. Base: USS Gurnard (SSN 662)

University of Alaska Army ROTC cadets stage at the designated landing zone on the Malemute drop zone on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Alaska, Dec. 2, as an Alaska Army National Guard UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter assigned to 1-207th Aviation Regiment approaches to conduct an extraction. The Seawolf ROTC Detachment maneuvered across more than one mile of frozen terrain to assault opposition forces and secure its objective. The Alaska Army National Guards General Support Aviation Battalion routinely trains with all branches of the military as well as civilian agencies to increase its operational interoperability and to be ready for a wide range of federal and state missions. (Alaska National Guard photo by Dana Rosso)

MAJ Brooke Myers, left, and an observer watch as an HH-3 Jolly Green Giant helicopter from the 77th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service prepares to land. The HH-3 will evacuate them from a survival training site during exercise Brim Frost '83. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST '83 Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, prepare ammunition during a live-fire range while deployed with Marine Rotational Forces Europe (MRF-E) 23.1 in Setermoen, Norway, April 1, 2023. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Pfc. Anthony DiLeonardo from 2nd Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division launches a Raven RQ-11B unmanned aerial vehicle April 02 in Yukon Training Area during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02. The Arctic is unforgiving and requires deliberate, purposeful leaders who are meticulous in their planning and approach to their warfighting, and JPMRC-AK 23-02 is key to testing the divisions leaders and soldiers.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont National Guard, and Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Colorado National Guard, ski at Camp Ethan Allen Training Site, Jericho, Vt., January 25, 2017. Soldiers from both the Vermont and Colorado National Guard participated in a stress-shoot training, which incorporated squads skiing, shooting and communicating together in mountainous terrain.

U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, execute live fire operations as part of a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Rapid Infiltration, also known as a HIRAIN, during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force, Alaska, Feb. 24, 2024. The HIRAIN demonstrated Marine Forces Reserves ability to rapidly deploy the HIMARS to meet and deter any threats in any environment, including harsh arctic environments. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. militarys capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Kyle York, assigned to the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, observes an RQ-11 Raven drone during a familiarization training near Hohenfels, Germany on Dec. 12, 2022. Soldiers learned to launch, fly, and land drones in a field environment during the training.

Republic of Korea Marines prepare to ski downhill during Korea Viper 24.1 at Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea, Feb. 16, 2024. The training teaches Marines multiple skiing techniques, mountain movement, and survival skills in an austere cold weather environment. In its first iteration, Korea Viper demonstrates the ROK-US Marine Corps ability to respond decisively in the region as a singular, unified force while strengthening relationships and trust between the two allies. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers from the 88th Readiness Division descend the Whitetail Ridge Ski Hill during snowshoe training at Fort McCoy, Wis. on Jan. 21, 2024. Despite the forecasted frigid temperatures, members of HHD Company assembled at the installation's Whitetail Ridge Ski Area on one of the coldest days of the year to train on the use and familiarization of snowshoes and cold weather gear.

A U.S. Army infantry squad leader, center, with Blackfoot Company, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, directs his troops on how to set up their fighting position during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Alaska 23-02 at Yukon Training Area, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, April 1, 2023. JPMRC-AK 23-02 is a display of the 11th Airborne Divisions ability to survive and thrive in the Arctic, and its soldiers ability to fight and win our nations wars anywhere.

GYSGT Abbatt of Company B, 1ST Tank Battalion, uses a pair of binoculars to check the target prior to the firing of the M-60A1 tanks. The battalion is taking part in cold weather training. Base: Yakima Army Firing Range State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-ST-88-07292. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL POTLATCH '87 Base: Naval Air Station, Adak State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Air National Guard security policemen debark a C-141B Starlifter in a snowstorm during exercise Brim Frost '81. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST '81 Base: Elmendorf Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A helicopter rescue of mountaineers on the West Buttress route on Denali, AK.

Sustainment training, conducted by Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, includes various mountain mobility skills at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., March 5, 2023. Special equipment, such as climbing axes, sit harness, carabiners, and crampons, allows Soldiers to negotiate steep terrain and vertical obstacles that are otherwise impassable.

Japan Air Self-Defense Force 3rd Air Wing personnel outline an area to excavate in order to repair damage during Rapid Airfield Damage Repair training at Draughon Range, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. U.S. and Japanese partners worked alongside each other repairing the craters while observers from both countries took notes on the difference in procedures.

An Air National Guard Medic assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard, participates in a cold-water immersion as part of the Air National Guard's Security Forces Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC) at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minnesota, on January 18, 2024. The two-week CWOC course combined classroom instruction, outdoor skills development, and a 3-day, field training event that required students to build and sleep in arctic tent systems, subsisting on cold weather Meals Ready to Eat and incorporated land navigation, live saving skills, and cold water immersion events. 50 students from Air National Guard wings from across the U.S. participated in the advanced, cold weather survival course planned by personnel assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a convoy live-fire range in Setermoen, Norway March 24, 2023. Marines are deployed to Norway as part of Marine Rotational Forces Europe 23.1 which focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Russian Search and Rescue teams arrive at the Soyuz MS-05 spacecraft shortly after it landed with Expedition 53 Commander Randy Bresnik of NASA and Flight Engineers Paolo Nespoli of ESA (European Space Agency) and Sergey Ryazanskiy of the Russian space agency Roscosmos near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017. Bresnik, Nespoli and Ryazanskiy are returning after 139 days in space where they served as members of the Expedition 52 and 53 crews onboard the International Space Station.

The Norwegian Youth Platoon conducted classroom training on land navigation followed by a trip downrange to put their new skills to use, March 31, 2022.From day one the Youth have been incredibly motivated and professional, said Army 2nd Lt. Ryan Seeger. "I am incredibly proud and honored to be part of NOREX."(Minnesota National Guard Photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Angel Cortes practices skiing in the mountains during Korea Viper 24.1 at Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea, Feb. 14, 2024. The training teaches Marines multiple skiing techniques, mountain movement, and survival skills in an austere cold weather environment. In its first iteration, Korea Viper demonstrates the ROK-US Marine Corps ability to respond decisively in the region as a singular, unified force while strengthening relationships and trust between the two allies. Cortes, a native of Texas, is a rifleman with 2d Battalion, 7th Marines. 2/7 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Marine Corps

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