The US military predicts that in the event of a hypothetical conflict between the US and Russia, as well as China in the Pacific Ocean, even the remote state of Alaska will become a battlefield.
That is why the missile defense system in Alaska is given priority, Defense Express reports.
The US Special Operations Forces are currently conducting exercises to protect the island of Shemya, which is part of the Aleutian Islands. During these exercises, special forces of the Special Operations Command "North" (SOCNORTH) are trained to shoot down low-flying small targets and enemy fighters that can attack the Aleutian Archipelago or even Alaska.
Shemya Island is strategically important for the defense of the northern US states.
The AN/ FPS-108 Cobra Dane radar, which is part of the missile defense system, is located on this island. There is also an airport and other infrastructure elements that allow receiving and servicing heavy transport aircraft and strategic bombers.
Shemya Island was of strategic importance to the United States during the Cold War as a defensive outpost against the USSR. Today, the military also believes that Shemya may become a battlefield in a future global conflict.
