Increasingly dynamic weather, often considered a long-term global challenge, has been found to have a more immediate impact on military operations than previously thought. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more unpredictable, the traditional landscapes of warfare are undergoing transformation. The melting Arctic, for example, is opening new navigational routes and potential conflict zones that have previously been locked under the ice.

Rising sea levels may pose significant threats to military installations, especially those situated near coasts. If this happens, naval bases are particularly at risk, facing the possibility of increased flooding or even total submersion. These installations are critical infrastructures for national defense, and their potential loss or disruption could have severe consequences for military readiness and response capabilities.

Beyond the immediate physical changes, climate change also brings new operational challenges. Increased instances of extreme weather can affect military equipment, restrict the mobility of troops, and complicate logistics. Moreover, in hot spots, increased temperatures could lead to increased instances of heat-related injuries among service members, hampering their operational efficiency.

Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Assistance: The Expanding Role of the Military