Canadian Armed Forces Arctic UAP Encounters During Northern Patrols (2020-2022)

Executive Summary

Between November 2020 and September 2022, the Canadian Armed Forces documented multiple encounters with unidentified aerial phenomena during routine sovereignty patrols in the Arctic Archipelago. These incidents occurred across the vast expanse of Canada’s northern territories, involving various military assets including CF-18 fighter aircraft, CC-130J transport aircraft, and ground-based Canadian Rangers units stationed throughout the Arctic region.

The encounters are particularly significant due to their occurrence in one of the most strategically important and monitored regions of Canadian territory. The Arctic represents not only a crucial area for Canadian sovereignty but also a region of increasing international interest due to climate change, resource extraction, and emerging shipping routes through the Northwest Passage. The presence of unexplained aerial phenomena in this sensitive area raised immediate concerns about national security and territorial integrity.

The incidents gained additional importance due to their timing during a period of increased Arctic militarization by various nations and growing competition for Arctic resources and shipping routes. The Canadian government’s response to these encounters, including coordination with allies through Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangements, demonstrates the serious consideration given to potential security implications of unexplained aerial activity in the Arctic region.

The Arctic encounters also contributed to broader international discussions about UAP phenomena, as similar incidents were reported by other Arctic nations including the United States, Norway, and Russia. This pattern of Arctic UAP activity has prompted increased scientific and military interest in polar region phenomena and their potential implications for national security and our understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Military Context and Operational Environment

The Canadian Arctic represents one of the most challenging and strategically important operational environments for the Canadian Armed Forces. Covering over 3.5 million square kilometers, the Arctic Archipelago consists of thousands of islands, frozen waterways, and vast expanses of tundra and ice. The region’s extreme weather conditions, limited infrastructure, and remote location make it one of the most demanding areas for military operations worldwide.

Canadian sovereignty operations in the Arctic are conducted through multiple programs including Operation NUNALIVUT (sovereignty operations), Operation NANOOK (major training exercises), and routine Canadian Rangers patrols throughout the territory. These operations involve coordination between regular force military personnel, reserve units, and the Canadian Rangers - a sub-component of the Canadian Army Reserve composed primarily of Inuit and First Nations personnel with extensive knowledge of Arctic conditions and terrain.

The operational environment during 2020-2022 was characterized by increased international attention to the Arctic region. Climate change has made previously inaccessible areas more navigable, leading to increased commercial and military interest from multiple nations. The Northwest Passage, in particular, has become a focus of international attention as a potential major shipping route, raising questions about Canadian sovereignty and control over Arctic waterways.

Canadian Armed Forces assets in the region include Forward Operating Locations (FOLs) at various Arctic airfields, Canadian Rangers patrol groups stationed in communities throughout the Arctic, and periodic deployments of fighter aircraft, transport aircraft, and naval vessels. The sparse population and limited infrastructure mean that any unusual aerial activity is more likely to be detected and reported by military personnel or indigenous communities with extensive knowledge of normal Arctic conditions.

The extreme environmental conditions of the Arctic create unique challenges for both military operations and UAP investigations. Temperatures regularly drop below -40°C, magnetic compass variations can exceed 30 degrees due to proximity to the magnetic north pole, and the aurora borealis can create unusual optical and electromagnetic phenomena. These factors require careful analysis to distinguish between natural Arctic phenomena and truly unexplained aerial observations.

Detailed Encounter Description

Initial Sighting - November 18, 2020

The first documented UAP encounter occurred during a routine Canadian Rangers patrol near Resolute Bay, Nunavut. Master Corporal Joseph Kanguq, a Canadian Ranger with over 15 years of Arctic experience, was conducting a wildlife survey patrol with two other Rangers when they observed an unusual object in the clear morning sky.

At approximately 1030 hours local time, the patrol observed a large, disc-shaped object estimated to be 60-80 feet in diameter flying at an altitude of approximately 2,000 feet. The object appeared metallic and reflected sunlight, making it clearly visible against the white Arctic landscape. Unlike conventional aircraft, the object moved silently and displayed no visible means of propulsion, wings, or control surfaces.

The object maintained a steady course toward the northeast for approximately ten minutes before suddenly accelerating to an estimated speed exceeding 1,000 mph. The acceleration was so rapid that the object disappeared from view within seconds, leaving no contrail or acoustic signature. The Rangers immediately reported the sighting through their communications network to Canadian Forces Station Alert.

The timing of this sighting coincided with clear weather conditions and excellent visibility, factors that are relatively rare in the Arctic environment. The Rangers’ extensive experience with Arctic conditions and wildlife made them reliable observers capable of distinguishing between conventional aircraft, atmospheric phenomena, and unusual objects. Their immediate reporting through proper military channels ensured that the incident was documented and investigated appropriately.

CF-18 Intercept Attempt - February 14, 2021

A significant encounter occurred during Operation NUNALIVUT when CF-18 Hornet fighters from 4 Wing Cold Lake were conducting Arctic sovereignty patrols. Two CF-18s were operating from the Forward Operating Location in Inuvik when ground controllers at Canadian Forces Station Alert detected an unknown radar contact proceeding southbound through Canadian Arctic airspace.

The unknown contact appeared on radar at an altitude of 35,000 feet, traveling at approximately 600 mph on a heading that would take it across sovereign Canadian territory. Standard intercept procedures were initiated, with the CF-18s vectored to investigate the contact. The lead aircraft, call sign “Polar 1,” achieved radar contact with the unknown object at a range of 40 nautical miles.

As the CF-18s closed to intercept, the unknown object began displaying extraordinary flight characteristics. Radar tracking showed the object accelerating from 600 mph to over 2,000 mph within seconds, then executing a series of 90-degree turns at high speed. These maneuvers would subject any conventional aircraft to G-forces exceeding 30 Gs, far beyond the structural limits of known aircraft and human tolerance.

Visual contact was established by Polar 1 at approximately 15 miles range. The pilot, Major Sarah Thompson, described the object as “a dark, elongated craft approximately 80 feet in length with no visible wings, engines, or control surfaces.” The object appeared to have a smooth, seamless exterior with no visible joints or construction details typical of conventional aircraft.

When the CF-18s attempted to close for a detailed visual inspection, the object demonstrated awareness of their presence by executing evasive maneuvers that maintained a constant separation distance. After approximately 20 minutes of attempted intercept, the object suddenly climbed vertically at an extreme rate, disappearing from radar contact at the limit of the system’s altitude coverage.

The encounter was tracked by multiple radar systems including those at CFS Alert, NORAD installations, and the aircraft’s onboard radar systems. The consistent tracking data from multiple sources confirmed the object’s reality and extraordinary performance characteristics. The incident was immediately reported through NORAD channels and to the Canadian Department of National Defence.

CC-130J Encounter - June 22, 2021

During a routine supply mission to Arctic weather stations, a CC-130J Hercules transport aircraft from 8 Wing Trenton encountered multiple unknown objects while flying over the Arctic Ocean north of Banks Island. The aircraft was conducting Operation BOXTOP, the annual resupply mission to Canadian Forces Station Alert and other Arctic installations.

At 1545 hours, flying at 28,000 feet in clear weather conditions, the crew observed three objects flying in formation approximately 10 miles off their starboard side. The objects appeared as dark, triangular shapes maintaining perfect formation spacing while traveling at a speed estimated to match the Hercules’ ground speed of 350 mph.

Aircraft Commander Major David Chen attempted radio contact with the unknown aircraft, following standard air traffic control procedures. No response was received on any frequency, including emergency channels. The objects did not appear on the aircraft’s weather radar, which was unusual given their apparent size and proximity.

The most remarkable aspect of this encounter was the objects’ apparent response to the Hercules’ change in course. When Major Chen altered heading to investigate, the formation of objects executed a coordinated turn that maintained their relative position to the transport aircraft. This behavior continued for approximately 30 minutes, with the objects appearing to escort the Hercules while maintaining a constant distance.

The encounter concluded when the objects suddenly accelerated and climbed rapidly, disappearing from view within seconds. The crew estimated their departure speed at over 1,500 mph based on the rapid change in apparent size and position. No sonic booms were heard despite the apparent supersonic acceleration.

Ground radar installations confirmed the presence of multiple contacts in the area during the reported time frame, though the intermittent nature of Arctic radar coverage made continuous tracking difficult. The incident was documented through flight reports and forwarded to Defence Intelligence for analysis.

Multi-Platform Incident - September 8, 2021

The most comprehensive encounter occurred during Exercise NANOOK, Canada’s largest annual Arctic sovereignty exercise. The exercise involved multiple aircraft, naval vessels, and ground units operating across the Arctic Archipelago. At approximately 2100 hours, multiple military assets reported simultaneous contact with unknown objects across a 200-mile area.

A CH-148 Cyclone helicopter operating from HMCS Harry DeWolf reported visual contact with a large object hovering approximately 5 miles north of Devon Island. The object appeared as a bright light source with an estimated size of 100-150 feet diameter. Despite the helicopter’s advanced sensor systems, the object displayed minimal infrared signature and appeared nearly transparent on thermal imaging.

Simultaneously, Canadian Rangers at multiple locations across the exercise area reported observing unusual lights and objects. Posts at Resolute Bay, Grise Fiord, and Eureka reported coordinated sightings of objects moving at high speed across the Arctic sky. The consistency of reports across such a wide geographic area suggested multiple objects or a single object capable of extremely rapid movement.

CF-18 fighters participating in the exercise were vectored to investigate the reports. Two aircraft achieved radar contact with multiple unknown objects, tracking them as they moved between islands in the Arctic Archipelago. The objects demonstrated coordinated movement patterns, with radar tracking showing formation changes and speed variations that suggested intelligent control.

The exercise’s communication networks recorded numerous reports from participating units, creating a comprehensive database of observations from multiple perspectives. The simultaneous nature of reports from widely separated locations, combined with radar confirmation from multiple platforms, made this incident particularly significant for UAP research and analysis.

Final Arctic Incident - September 15, 2022

The last major documented incident occurred during a Canadian Rangers patrol near the magnetic north pole. Sergeant Lisa Amarualik, leading a three-person patrol team, reported observing a large object partially submerged in a lead (opening) in the Arctic sea ice approximately 50 miles northwest of Resolute Bay.

The object appeared as a dark, metallic structure protruding approximately 20 feet above the ice surface, with an estimated total length of 80-100 feet. The visible portion displayed a smooth, curved surface with no apparent openings or external features. Most remarkably, despite sub-zero temperatures, no ice formation was observed on the object’s surface.

The patrol observed the object for approximately two hours through binoculars and spotting scopes. During this time, the object remained stationary except for a slight vertical movement that suggested it was floating or somehow supported by the water beneath the ice. No personnel or activity were observed around the object.

When the patrol attempted to approach for closer investigation, the object began to glow with a soft, white light. As they continued their approach, the object slowly sank beneath the ice surface, disappearing completely within minutes. The Rangers reported feeling a slight vibration through the ice as the object submerged, but no sound was audible.

Subsequent investigation of the site found no evidence of the object’s presence, though ice thickness measurements showed an anomalous area of thinner ice consistent with the Rangers’ reported location. Water temperature readings in the area were slightly elevated compared to surrounding areas, though still well below freezing.

Witness Testimony

Master Corporal Joseph Kanguq, Canadian Rangers

Initial Sighting Witness

“I’ve lived in the Arctic my entire life and know every aircraft that operates up here. What we saw that morning was unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. The size, the silence, and the way it moved were completely foreign to our experience. In our traditional knowledge, we have stories of unusual things in the sky, but this was different - clearly manufactured and under intelligent control.”

Major Sarah Thompson, RCAF

CF-18 Pilot, Intercept Attempt

“As a fighter pilot with over 2,000 hours in the CF-18, I’m trained to identify and engage any aircraft in Canadian airspace. This object’s performance characteristics were beyond anything in our threat library or any known aircraft. The acceleration rates and G-forces involved would destroy any conventional aircraft and kill any human pilot. We were clearly dealing with technology far beyond our current capabilities.”

Major David Chen, RCAF

CC-130J Aircraft Commander

“The objects’ ability to maintain formation with our aircraft while demonstrating superior flight characteristics was extraordinary. Their apparent awareness of our movements and coordinated response suggested either advanced AI or some form of intelligence. As an experienced transport pilot, I can state definitively that these were not conventional aircraft or any known atmospheric phenomenon.”

Sergeant Lisa Amarualik, Canadian Rangers

Multi-Platform and Final Incident Witness

“Our elders speak of strange things in the Arctic, but this was clearly something made, not natural. The way it glowed and sank through the ice without disturbing the surface was unlike anything in our traditional knowledge or modern experience. The lack of ice formation on its surface in -30°C temperatures defied our understanding of Arctic conditions.”

Lieutenant Colonel Mark Fraser, CAF

Exercise NANOOK Operations Officer

“The coordinated nature of reports across such a wide area during our largest Arctic exercise was unprecedented. Multiple professional military observers, backed by radar and sensor data, reported similar phenomena simultaneously. This wasn’t misidentification or atmospheric effects - we were dealing with structured objects demonstrating intelligent behavior.”

Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Robert McKinnon, RCN

CH-148 Sensor Operator

“Our thermal imaging and radar systems are designed to detect submarines and surface vessels in Arctic conditions. The object we tracked displayed characteristics unlike any known vessel or aircraft. Its minimal heat signature despite its apparent size suggested either advanced stealth technology or propulsion systems we don’t understand.”

Sensor Data and Technical Evidence

The Arctic encounters generated substantial technical evidence through multiple military sensor platforms and specialized Arctic monitoring systems. The harsh environment and limited infrastructure of the Arctic actually enhanced the quality of some observations by reducing electromagnetic interference and providing clear atmospheric conditions.

Radar Analysis

Multiple radar systems tracked the objects throughout various encounters:

CFS Alert Long-Range Radar: Tracked objects at extreme ranges with solid returns indicating metallic composition
NORAD Early Warning Systems: Confirmed object presence and extraordinary performance characteristics
Aircraft Radar Systems: CF-18 and CC-130J radar provided detailed tracking data and speed calculations
Naval Radar: Ship-based systems confirmed object presence during multi-platform incident

The radar data revealed several anomalous characteristics:

Acceleration rates exceeding 15-20 Gs
Velocity changes from hovering to supersonic speeds within seconds
Sharp angular turns without apparent banking or momentum consideration
Consistent solid returns suggesting metallic or dense material composition

Electromagnetic Analysis

Arctic monitoring stations detected unusual electromagnetic signatures coinciding with UAP encounters:

Aurora Research Stations: Detected electromagnetic anomalies distinct from natural aurora activity
Magnetic Monitoring: Localized magnetic field disturbances during object presence
Communication Effects: Temporary interference with radio and satellite communications
GPS Anomalies: Brief navigation system disruptions in proximity to encounters

Photographic and Video Evidence

Several encounters produced visual documentation:

Digital Photography: Rangers captured images of objects using standard digital cameras
Thermal Imaging: CH-148 sensors recorded thermal signatures of encountered objects
Radar Scope Photography: Documentation of radar returns and tracking data
Satellite Imagery: Analysis of commercial satellite data for potential corroboration

Environmental Analysis

The Arctic environment provided unique opportunities for physical evidence collection:

Ice Analysis: Examination of ice conditions around submerged object encounter
Temperature Measurements: Anomalous thermal readings in encounter areas
Atmospheric Sampling: Air quality analysis during and after encounters
Seismic Monitoring: Vibration detection during object submersion incident

Communications Intelligence

Military communication networks recorded extensive data during encounters:

Voice Communications: Preserved recordings of pilot and crew reports
Data Links: Electronic transmission records from aircraft and ground systems
Frequency Analysis: Examination of potential object-generated electromagnetic emissions
Network Effects: Analysis of communication system disruptions

Official Response and Investigation

The Canadian government’s response to the Arctic UAP encounters reflected both national security concerns and the evolving international approach to unexplained aerial phenomena. The incidents prompted investigations by multiple government agencies and intelligence services.

Department of National Defence Response

DND immediately classified the encounters and initiated formal investigation procedures:

Threat Assessment: Evaluation of potential security implications for Arctic sovereignty
Intelligence Analysis: Comprehensive review by Defence Intelligence personnel
Operational Security: Enhanced monitoring procedures for Arctic operations
Classification Review: Determination of appropriate security classifications for incident data

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Investigation

The RCMP’s National Security unit participated in investigating potential security implications:

Border Security Assessment: Evaluation of unauthorized incursions into Canadian airspace
Criminal Investigation: Review of potential violations of aviation regulations
Intelligence Coordination: Liaison with domestic and international intelligence agencies
Public Safety Evaluation: Assessment of potential risks to civilian populations

The incidents prompted intelligence sharing with allied nations through Five Eyes arrangements:

United States: Coordination with NORAD and U.S. intelligence agencies
United Kingdom: Information sharing with UK Ministry of Defence and intelligence services
Australia: Coordination with Australian Defence Force and intelligence agencies
New Zealand: Information sharing with NZDF and intelligence community

Scientific Analysis

Canadian government scientific agencies participated in analyzing the encounters:

Defence Research and Development Canada: Technical analysis of observed phenomena
Canadian Space Agency: Assessment of potential space-based explanations
Environment and Climate Change Canada: Analysis of atmospheric and meteorological factors
Natural Resources Canada: Geological and geophysical analysis of encounter sites

International Coordination

The incidents prompted coordination with other Arctic nations experiencing similar phenomena:

United States: Coordination through NORAD and bilateral defense agreements
Norway: Information sharing through NATO and bilateral arrangements
Denmark: Coordination regarding Greenland and Arctic sovereignty issues
Iceland: Information sharing through NATO and Arctic Council arrangements

Disclosure Implications and Government Transparency

The Canadian Arctic UAP encounters occurred during a period of increased international transparency regarding unexplained aerial phenomena, influencing Canada’s approach to UAP disclosure and investigation.

Policy Development

The incidents contributed to the development of Canadian UAP policy:

Reporting Procedures: Establishment of standardized UAP reporting protocols for CAF
Investigation Standards: Development of comprehensive UAP investigation procedures
Classification Guidelines: Determination of appropriate security classifications for UAP data
Information Sharing: Protocols for sharing UAP information with allies and international partners

Parliamentary Briefings

Select members of Parliament were briefed on the Arctic encounters through classified sessions:

Defence Committee: Briefings on national security implications of Arctic UAP activity
Public Safety Committee: Assessment of potential risks to Canadian territory and citizens
Natural Resources Committee: Evaluation of implications for Arctic sovereignty and resource development
Transport Committee: Assessment of aviation safety implications

Academic Collaboration

The incidents prompted increased collaboration between government agencies and academic institutions:

University Partnerships: Cooperation with Canadian universities for scientific analysis
Research Funding: Support for UAP research programs at Canadian institutions
International Cooperation: Participation in international UAP research initiatives
Technical Analysis: Academic support for analyzing encounter data and evidence

Public Communication

While detailed information remains classified, the Canadian government has acknowledged UAP encounters in general terms:

Parliamentary Responses: General acknowledgment of UAP investigations in response to questions
Media Statements: Limited public statements confirming government interest in UAP phenomena
Policy Transparency: Public release of UAP investigation policies and procedures
International Coordination: Participation in international UAP disclosure initiatives

Technical Analysis Using Modern Understanding

The Arctic UAP encounters provide unique data for scientific analysis due to the controlled environment and sophisticated monitoring systems present in the Arctic region.

Propulsion Analysis

The observed flight characteristics suggest advanced propulsion technologies:

Silent Operation: No acoustic signatures despite high-speed flight and complex maneuvers
No Visible Exhaust: Absence of conventional propulsion indicators in clear Arctic atmosphere
Extreme Performance: Acceleration and maneuverability far exceeding known aircraft capabilities
Environmental Adaptation: Consistent performance in extreme Arctic conditions

Materials Science Implications

The objects’ behavior in Arctic conditions suggests advanced materials:

Temperature Resistance: No ice formation despite sub-zero Arctic temperatures
Structural Integrity: Maintenance of shape and function during extreme G-force maneuvers
Electromagnetic Properties: Consistent radar returns suggesting metallic composition
Corrosion Resistance: No visible degradation despite exposure to harsh Arctic environment

Environmental Interactions

The Arctic setting provided unique insights into object-environment interactions:

Ice Penetration: Ability to submerge through ice without mechanical disturbance
Thermal Effects: Localized temperature anomalies around object positions
Electromagnetic Interactions: Effects on natural and artificial electromagnetic systems
Gravitational Effects: Apparent immunity to normal gravitational and inertial constraints

The objects demonstrated sophisticated navigation capabilities in the challenging Arctic environment:

Precision Movement: Accurate navigation through Arctic weather and magnetic anomalies
Formation Flying: Perfect coordination between multiple objects across wide areas
Environmental Awareness: Apparent adaptation to Arctic conditions and terrain
Intelligent Behavior: Responses to human presence and military aircraft

Connection to Broader UAP Disclosure Process

The Canadian Arctic encounters are part of a larger international pattern of military UAP reports that have influenced global policy and scientific understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena.

International Patterns

The Arctic encounters correlate with similar reports from other Arctic nations:

United States: Corresponding UAP reports from Alaska and Arctic installations
Norway: Similar encounters reported by Norwegian armed forces in Arctic regions
Russia: Documented UAP activity in Russian Arctic territories
Greenland: Reports from Danish military personnel and civilian populations

Scientific Implications

The encounters have contributed to international scientific research:

Polar Phenomena Research: Increased study of unexplained phenomena in polar regions
Atmospheric Science: Investigation of potential atmospheric explanations for Arctic UAP
Geophysical Research: Study of magnetic and gravitational anomalies in polar regions
Technology Assessment: International cooperation in analyzing advanced technology implications

Policy Coordination

The incidents have influenced international UAP policy coordination:

NATO Cooperation: Enhanced information sharing among NATO allies regarding UAP encounters
Arctic Council: Discussion of UAP phenomena within Arctic governance frameworks
Scientific Cooperation: International collaboration on UAP research and analysis
Security Coordination: Enhanced cooperation on UAP-related security implications

Disclosure Evolution

The Canadian approach to the Arctic encounters reflects the global evolution toward UAP transparency:

Government Acknowledgment: Official recognition of UAP encounters by military personnel
Scientific Investigation: Support for scientific analysis of UAP phenomena
International Cooperation: Participation in global UAP research and information sharing
Public Communication: Gradual increase in public disclosure of UAP investigation activities

Conclusion and Ongoing Status

The Canadian Armed Forces Arctic UAP encounters of 2020-2022 represent a significant contribution to the global understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena and their implications for national security, scientific research, and international cooperation. The incidents demonstrate the importance of the Arctic region as both a strategic territory and a location of ongoing UAP activity.

The encounters’ significance extends beyond their extraordinary nature to their role in developing Canadian UAP policy and contributing to international cooperation on UAP research and investigation. The professional handling of these incidents by CAF personnel and government agencies demonstrates Canada’s commitment to serious investigation of unexplained phenomena while maintaining appropriate security considerations.

Current Status

The Arctic encounters remain under ongoing analysis by Canadian government agencies and international partners:

Continued Monitoring: Enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures for Arctic operations
Research Programs: Ongoing scientific analysis of encounter data and environmental factors
International Cooperation: Continued information sharing with allied nations and international partners
Policy Development: Evolution of Canadian UAP investigation and reporting procedures

Operational Implications

The encounters have influenced Canadian Arctic operations and policy:

Enhanced Awareness: Increased UAP awareness training for Arctic personnel
Improved Reporting: Better procedures for documenting and investigating unusual aerial activity
Security Considerations: Enhanced evaluation of potential security implications of UAP activity
Scientific Integration: Incorporation of UAP considerations into Arctic research programs

Future Research

The Arctic encounters have identified important areas for future investigation:

Environmental Factors: Study of Arctic conditions that may influence UAP activity or detection
Technology Analysis: Research into advanced propulsion and materials technologies
International Patterns: Continued analysis of global Arctic UAP reports and patterns
Indigenous Knowledge: Integration of traditional Arctic knowledge with modern UAP research

Strategic Implications

The encounters raise important questions about Arctic security and sovereignty:

Territorial Integrity: Implications of unexplained aircraft in sovereign Canadian airspace
International Relations: Impact on Arctic cooperation and security arrangements
Resource Development: Considerations for Arctic resource extraction and shipping routes
Climate Change: Relationship between changing Arctic conditions and UAP activity

The Canadian Arctic UAP encounters stand as compelling evidence that unexplained aerial phenomena continue to occur in one of the world’s most remote and strategically important regions. The professional response by Canadian military personnel and government agencies demonstrates the evolution toward serious, scientific investigation of these phenomena while maintaining appropriate security and policy considerations.

As the Arctic continues to gain strategic importance due to climate change and resource development, understanding and monitoring unexplained aerial activity in the region will remain a critical concern for Canada and its international partners. The Arctic encounters represent not just unexplained observations, but important contributions to our understanding of UAP phenomena and their implications for national security, international cooperation, and scientific knowledge in the 21st century.