How Russia could get its hypersonic missiles within reach of the UK

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleNorway's defence minister, Tore Sandvik, warned that Russia's potential control of the strategic Bear Gap in the Arctic could place London within missile range, posing a direct threat to the UK.The Bear Gap, a stretch of water between mainland Norway and Svalbard, is crucial for Russia's Northern Fleet to access the Atlantic from the Barents Sea, with the fleet possessing significant nuclear strike capabilities.Despite Norway's sovereignty over Svalbard, the 1920 Svalbard Treaty prevents its militarisation, leaving the archipelago without a permanent military presence and vulnerable to potential Russian hybrid warfare.In response to growing security concerns and Russia's rearmament, Norway is enhancing its defence cooperation, including a new agreement with France on nuclear deterrence, and has amended legislation regarding Russian nationals.Both Russia, which recently conducted large-scale nuclear exercises, and the UK, whose defence secretary stated Russia poses the greatest threat to Arctic security since the Cold War, are increasing their military activities and presence in the High North.In fullFears Russia could threaten Arctic chokepoint that puts London within range of hypersonic missilesThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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