Cold War Ice uncovers the hidden history of military operations in the Arctic and Antarctic during the Cold War, revealing how these icy regions became strategic frontiers in the struggle between the US and the Soviet Union. The book examines the intersection of military history, world history, and environmental history, shedding light on clandestine activities, technological innovations, and the environmental impact of Cold War geopolitics in the polar regions. It highlights how the Arctic served as a critical area for early warning systems and submarine deployments, while the Antarctic, despite its demilitarized status, became a site for scientific research with potential military applications.
The book progresses chronologically, beginning with early polar explorations and scientific expeditions before delving into specific Cold War projects, such as the US Army's secret Camp Century in Greenland and Operation Highjump in Antarctica. It reveals how the unique challenges of operating in extreme cold spurred innovation in cold-weather engineering and communications technology.
Ultimately, Cold War Ice argues that the polar regions played a far more significant role in shaping Cold War strategies and technological developments than previously understood, leaving a lasting legacy on both international relations and the fragile polar ecosystems.
