How NATO Troops Are Using Snow Shelters to Evade Drone Detection During Cold Response 2026.

Cold Response 2026: NATO’s Arctic Drone Defense Drills

According to TSN.ua: During the NATO Cold Response 2026 exercises in Norway, military personnel are training to hide from drones by constructing specialized snow shelters called “quinsy” huts. These structures stand about 1.5 meters tall and measure up to 2 meters wide, enabling units—especially Arctic scouts—to operate effectively behind enemy lines. This training reflects NATO’s focus on countering modern aerial surveillance in cold-weather environments.

As counter-drone tactics evolve rapidly, troops must constantly adapt to new conditions. During the drills, soldiers are required to shift positions frequently—sometimes every 10 to 15 minutes—to avoid detection. Reconnaissance drones like the Skydio and FPV platforms were also deployed in Norway, highlighting the central role of technology in contemporary military operations.

Tools for Countering Drones

A range of counter-drone tools plays a key role in protection, including:

• drone detectors
• electronic warfare systems
• interception systems
• other countermeasures

Given that on March 16, 2023, Russia struck central Kyiv with Lancet drones containing components from the U.S. and Europe, these NATO exercises carry particular weight in ensuring the safety and readiness of military units for emerging threats.

The Cold Response 2026 drills in Norway underscore the growing importance of adapting military strategies to new technological dangers like drones. The use of specialized shelters and air defense technologies represents a response to changing combat dynamics, pushing military units toward more effective protection. This demonstrates NATO’s readiness to address modern security challenges that may arise amid active armed conflicts.