NORAD Canadian detachment supports the iconic Iditarod race

The Canadian Detachment at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage plays a critical role in defending North American skies through NORAD. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) work shoulder to shoulder with their U.S. counterparts to safeguard our shared skies and strengthen the security of both countries.

Beyond the mission, Canadians are deeply woven into Alaska’s community life. CAF members and their families volunteer at local food banks, help maintain Alaska’s trail system, and have proudly supported the iconic Iditarod Dog Sled Race for decades. Through the years they have prepared food caches, hosted Canadian mushers, and maintained the “Canadian section” of the trail in downtown Anchorage — ensuring teams can race safely through the city.

From continental defense to community traditions, the Canadian presence in Alaska reflects a close, trusted partnership rooted in shared responsibility, northern resilience.

Mining critical minerals: An Alaska–Canada partnership

Canadian companies play a vital role in Alaska’s mineral exploration and mining industry and help the U.S. secure critical minerals. Alaska’s incredibly rich geology has potential to supply valuable minerals like gold, copper, zinc, germanium, silver, and rare earths, crucial for modern technology and American security. Canadian expertise and investment help Alaska maximize its potential.

For more than 40 years, Canada’s Teck Resources, in partnership with NANA Regional Alaska Native Corporation, has operated one of the world’s largest zinc mines in northwest Alaska. This collaboration has ensured sustainable mining operations, created jobs, strengthened the regional economy, and reinforced U.S. access to critical minerals essential for manufacturing, technology, and national security.

Support for Alaskan transportation industry

British Columbia-based Viking Air is a leading supplier of utility aircraft to help support the needs of rural businesses throughout Alaska. In 2020, Alaska-based Maritime Helicopters needed a new aircraft to operate on the North Slope and turned to the Viking Twin Otter Series to best support Alaska’s oil and gas industry.

Many Alaskan pilots receive regular training through Pacific Sky Aviation, located in Alberta. This critical training ensures Alaskan-based flight services are able to continue fulfilling a wide variety of industry needs effectively.

Alaska exports $633 million in goods to Canada annually
Alaska exports to Canada by industry

• Agriculture: 15%
• Energy: 10%
• Equipment & machinery: 3%
• Minerals & metals: 69%
• Other: 3%

Top Alaska goods exports to Canada

• Ores, slag & ash: $435 million
• Fish & crustaceans: $77 million
• Fuel oil: $62 million
• Aircraft & parts: $11 million
• Wood & semi-finished wood products: $8 million
• Animal or vegetable fats, oils & waxes: $6 million
• Meat, fish & seafood preparations: $5 million
• Animal feed & food industry residues: $3 million
• Optical, medical & precision instruments: $3 million
• Trucks: $2 million

Alaska exports $113 million in services to Canada annually
Top Alaska services exports to Canada

• Transport: $51 million
• Travel (including for education): $36 million
• Business services: $13 million
• Maintenance & repair services: $5 million
• Charges for the use of intellectual property: $4 million

Alaska imports $1.3 billion in goods from Canada annually
Alaska imports from Canada by industry

• Energy: 57%
• Equipment & machinery: 15%
• Minerals & metals: 14%
• Transportation: 3%
• Other: 11%

Top Alaska goods imports from Canada

• Crude petroleum: $435 million
• Fuel oil: $281 million
• Ores, slag & ash: $127 million
• Compressors & pumps: $37 million
• Iron & steel tubes, pipes & sheets: $36 million
• Engines & turbines: $19 million
• Furniture & bedding: $14 million
• Heating, cooling & refrigeration equipment: $13 million
• Plastics & plastic articles: $11 million
• Natural gas & other gases: $10 million