Winter Warfare Training in the Sub-Arctic: Strengthening Canada’s Sovereignty
Introduction to the Training Exercise
The crack of gunfire echoes across a snow-covered sand quarry in Chisasibi, northern Quebec, marking the beginning of a critical winter warfare exercise. Approximately 175 members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are participating in this nine-day training mission, dubbed "Exercise Xerus Nordique." The troops, clad in white camouflage and equipped with snowshoes, advance in formation, firing as they move. At the far end of the quarry, seven soldiers play the role of the enemy, returning fire in a realistic combat scenario. This exercise is part of a broader effort to prepare the CAF for operations in harsh northern conditions, a mission deemed increasingly vital as Canada seeks to assert its sovereignty in the Arctic.
The Importance of Sub-Arctic Training
The Canadian government has identified the defense of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions as the "most urgent and important task" for the CAF. Climate change is reshaping the geopolitical and physical landscape of the North, making it essential for the military to be prepared to operate in these demanding environments. The training in Chisasibi, conducted by members of the 34 Canadian Brigade Group, is a step toward achieving this goal. The brigade, primarily composed of reservists from Montreal, falls under the command of Joint Task Force East, which is responsible for military operations in Quebec.
Challenges of Training in Extreme Conditions
The harsh winter conditions in Chisasibi present unique challenges for the soldiers. Temperatures have dropped as low as -40°C during the exercise, posing significant risks to the troops. Lt. Patrick Langlois, a reservist with the Black Watch regiment, highlights the dangers of hypothermia: "The downtime is when this weather can get dangerous… If the men get sweaty and it starts freezing on them, that’s when there’s the danger of hypothermia." The soldiers must carefully manage their body heat and stay vigilant to avoid such risks.
The Role of the Canadian Rangers
The Canadian Rangers, an Indigenous reserve unit, are also participating in the training. They bring invaluable expertise in surviving and operating in the harsh northern environment. The Rangers have shared tips for dealing with the cold and provided security for the exercise. While the main body of troops uses blanks for training, the Rangers carry live ammunition to protect against dangerous wildlife. Warrant Officer Carl Pépin explains, "They’re close by to make sure nothing goes wrong… They need them just in case — but nothing so far." Their presence adds a layer of safety and realism to the exercise.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The training exercise in Chisasibi has also served as an opportunity for outreach and recruiting in the local Cree community. Warrant Officer Carl Pépin has visited schools to talk about the Rangers and Junior Rangers programs, inspiring young people to consider joining. Master Corporal Colin Pepabano, a member of the Canadian Rangers, has been working alongside the troops during the exercise. He recalls the last time soldiers trained in Chisasibi in 2014, when he was just a boy. Pepabano joined the Rangers after losing his mother last year, seeking a meaningful way to contribute to his community. "I’d been looking for something meaningful to do in my life," he says. "It’s been great so far."
Future Plans for Northern Training
The CAF plans to make winter warfare training in the north an annual event, with the goal of conducting a larger division-level exercise involving approximately 1,000 troops in the coming years. This vision reflects the military’s commitment to asserting Canada’s sovereignty in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Lt. Col. Sébastien Campagna, the brigade group commander, emphasizes the importance of being able to operate in all areas of responsibility. "It’s extremely important to be able to go anywhere in our area of operation," he says. Training in remote locations like Chisasibi is crucial for building the skills and resilience needed to face the challenges of northern warfare.
In conclusion, the winter warfare exercise in Chisasibi is a vital step in preparing the Canadian Armed Forces for the evolving security landscape of the Arctic. By engaging with local communities and leveraging the expertise of the Canadian Rangers, the CAF is not only enhancing its operational capabilities but also strengthening its connection to the people it serves. As the military looks to the future, annual northern training exercises will play a key role in ensuring Canada’s sovereignty and security in the region.
