Increased military activity in Alaska with Northern Edge training exercise

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - Over the next two weeks Alaska will see increased military activity throughout the state. The Northern Edge 2023 training exercise, which is a joint field training exercise, started Thursday, May 4 and will continue through May 19.

This training will take place in and over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, the Gulf of Alaska, and temporary maritime activities areas, according to a press release from the Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game.

The press release states, “Thousands of U.S. service members, five ships and more than 150 aircraft are scheduled to participate in Northern Edge 2023.”

The United Kingdom and Australian service members will also participate in the training. This training will provide an opportunity for multinational operations to conduct realistic war fighter training, develop and improve joint interoperability and enhance combat readiness of participating forces.

Operating locations include Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Eielson Air Force Base, Fairbanks International Airport, and Ted Stevens International Airport.

Increased aircraft and maritime activity will mostly be noticed throughout the state and may be a concern to hunters and fisherman.