The U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance will travel to Pituffik Space Base in Greenland on Friday to receive a high-level briefing on Arctic security concerns and engage with U.S. servicemembers stationed at the base.
As the northernmost installation of the U.S. Department of Defense, Pituffik Space Base plays a critical role in missile warning, missile defense, and space surveillance. The facility, operated by the United States Space Force’s 821st Space Base Group, remains a key asset in America’s strategic presence in the Arctic region.
The United States’ historical military presence in Greenland dates back to World War II, when several bases were established to counter Nazi threats in the North Atlantic. During the Cold War, the U.S. strengthened its foothold in Greenland to deter potential Soviet missile attacks. However, decades of inaction from Danish authorities and previous U.S. administrations have allowed adversaries to expand their influence in the Arctic. The Biden administration is now reversing course to reaffirm U.S. commitment to Arctic security.
Vice President Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance’s visit to Pituffik Space Base will replace the Second Lady’s previously scheduled visit to the Avannaata Qimussersu dogsled race in Sisimiut.