Operation Clockwork is currently underway in the Norwegian town of Bardufoss for the 57th consecutive year. The exercise is conducted by elements from both the British Royal Air Force and the Royal Marines, according to NATO's own social media.
Located approximately 320 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, Bardufoss offers an Arctic climate suitable for training in extreme cold for both soldiers and materiel. Participating in the exercise is the British Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) with Wildcat and Merlin helicopters, according to the Royal Navy.
– The operation pushes pilots, observers, and engineers to their limits under harsh winter conditions, writes NATO on the platform Threads.
Operation Clockwork is part of the preparations for the exercise Cold Response 2026. During the exercise, NATO allies gather to conduct large-scale joint operations. The exercise includes elements related to readiness, interoperability, and NATO's ability to operate in Arctic conditions. Cold Response will be conducted from 9–19 March 2026.