EventOct 13, 10:52 AM

U.S. 11th Airborne Division Prepares Troops for Extreme Arctic Winter Operations

Maj. Gen. John Cogbill’s 11th Airborne Division conducts a winter‑induction program in Alaska that focuses on survival skills, specialized gear—such as the Cold‑Weather All‑Terrain Vehicle (CATV) and skis—and drone operations to sustain combat readiness in the harsh Arctic environment.

Arctic Today
Oct 13, 2026, 11:58 AMLatest report
With the cold breed: For soldiers of the 11th Airborne Division, ‘winter is always coming’(opens in a new tab)
The 11th Airborne Division’s winter training in Alaska focuses on building Arctic toughness, with leaders like Maj. Gen. John Cogbill emphasizing reliable equipment such as the Cold Weather All‑Terrain Vehicle and rapid innovation of drones suited to sub‑freezing conditions. Joint exercises and partnerships with academia help integrate technology and adjust tactics for severe cold, ensuring soldiers can operate, survive, and thrive in Alaska’s extreme environment.
Defense News
Oct 13, 2026, 10:52 AMFirst report
With the cold breed: For soldiers of the 11th Airborne Division, ‘winter is always coming’(opens in a new tab)
Maj. Gen. John Cogbill explains how the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division trains soldiers to endure Alaska’s extreme cold, leveraging specialized gear and drone innovation to maintain operational effectiveness in the Arctic.