A top NATO commander has called for heightened military readiness and a greater NATO presence around Iceland, according to Icelandic news outlet Fréttin. The comments were made as defence personnel and officials took part in the large-scale Norður‑Víkingur defence exercise.
About 1,200 people are participating in Norður‑Víkingur, an exercise bringing together local and foreign military forces in Iceland. The exercise is aimed at strengthening regional defence cooperation.
Alexus G. Grynkewich, NATO’s commander for Europe, discussed these issues in a meeting today with Iceland’s prime minister and foreign minister. Their conversation focused on the current security situation in the Arctic and defence cooperation between Iceland and the United States, as well as the need for improved NATO preparedness on the island, according to Fréttin and mbl.is.
Calls for improved coordination and training
In related commentary, former minister Björn Bjarnason highlighted the importance of having personnel trained to protect Iceland’s critical infrastructure. He also stressed the need for clear leadership when police, the coast guard, civil protection, and ports and airports must collaborate with foreign forces. These points were raised as Iceland continues to refine its approach to joint defence and emergency operations.
Sources
- Fréttin (first reported) in Icelandic
- mbl.is in Icelandic
