Operation NANOOK‑TATIGIIT Strengthens Whole‑of‑Government Crisis Response in the Arctic
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), in collaboration with federal, territorial, municipal and Indigenous partners, conducted Operation NANOOK-TATIGIIT (Op NA-TA) from October 19 to 23, in Whitehorse, Yukon, to strengthen whole-of-government preparedness and crisis response in support of safety and security in the North. Op NA-TA 26 brought together Public Safety Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canadian Coast Guard, the Canadian Red Cross, Indigenous Services Canada, the Yukon First Nations government and communities, alongside territorial and municipal authorities to exercise decision-making and crisis response in a northern environment. The 2026 scenario simulated a complex emergency threatening critical infrastructure and public safety in northern communities, requiring participants to coordinate response efforts, address emerging challenges, and make timely decisions under demanding conditions. This strengthened coordination, clarified roles and responsibilities, and enhanced preparedness for emergencies in the North. Operation NANOOK is conducted throughout the year through a series of activities designed to strengthen the CAF's ability to operate in the Arctic and North alongside Indigenous communities, government partners, allies, and other stakeholders. Working closely with partners, the CAF leverages a whole-of-government approach to strengthen its presence, reach, mobility, and responsiveness in the region, advancing broader Government of Canada priorities and contributing to a secure region. “Operation NANOOK-TATIGIIT strengthens the whole-of-government approach to Arctic defence and security. Through integrated planning and collaboration, we improve coordination, build shared awareness of the operating environment, and reinforce our collective ability to address complex and evolving safety and security challenges across the Arctic and North," said Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command.
