Conclusion 22

The MOD has recognised that the gradual opening of the High North in recent years has made the defence and security of the region a high priority. Failure to deter Russia in the region, particularly from underwater threats, puts at particular risk sub-sea data cables and energy pipes in adjacent UK waters during peacetime. Failure to counter Russia in the High North during hostilities would also threaten the UK population and entire military and civilian critical national infrastructure, including the nuclear deterrent and Atlantic resupply routes from the US. (Conclusion, Paragraph 124)