Russia is building a ‘new’ Arctic base on Wrangel Island

The National Interest has published a story asserting that Russia is “quietly” constructing a new military base at Ushakovskoye on Wrangel Island in the Chukchi Sea. Describing the site as a threat to U.S. and NATO activity because of the island’s proximity to Alaska.

According to the article, the facility centers on a Sopka-2 air surveillance radar and associated support infrastructure. The installation is said to be part of a wider Russian military buildup across the Arctic and the article argues that activity on Wrangel carries environmental and security implications.

The story frames Wrangel as historically American territory. Citing an 1881 episode, it argues the United States has a dormant claim to the island and contends that Washington should not abandon it. The piece also ties the island’s status to broader competition over Arctic resources and sea routes. Ushakovskoye is said to beevidence of Russia’s fortification of the island, describing a radar site supported by logistics and housing. The location enables surveillance of approaches to Alaska and could complicate Western operations in the region.

The article notes Wrangel Island’s UNESCO World Heritage designation and argues that military activity undermines protections for a fragile ecosystem. Implying that the development is both a strategic and environmental concern.