• Climate change is a significant security threat that militaries need to address.
• Experts emphasize the risk of strategic blind spots in national security regarding climate action.
• Militaries are increasingly involved in disaster response, stretching their capacities.
• Reports suggest armies may contribute up to 5.5% of global emissions.
• The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with energy security becoming a key focus post-Ukraine invasion.

Experts warn that militaries worldwide face escalating challenges from climate change and must avoid allowing this issue to become a strategic "blind spot." They identify a range of issues, from disaster response to heightened competition in the Arctic due to warming trends, that pose significant risks for national security according to Channel News Asia, Le Monde, and Dawn.

Concerns have emerged that ongoing climate crises may be overshadowed by heightened defense spending in Europe and decreasing environmental commitments in the United States, particularly during the Trump administration. Erin Sikorsky, director of the Center for Climate & Security, notes that "climate doesn't care who's president or what your political goals are at the moment," highlighting that militaries must prepare for these realities according to Channel News Asia, Le Monde, and Dawn.

The profile of threats is evolving; for instance, the recent war in Ukraine has intensified energy security concerns and prompted countries to accelerate their renewable energy commitments. However, many nations have subsequently reduced international development aid, challenging budgets allocated for climate initiatives as defense priorities become paramount according to Channel News Asia, Le Monde, and Dawn.

In addition, Sikorsky warns that military operations are already being stretched due to increased involvement in disaster response efforts. Over 500 such responses have been recorded globally since 2022. This growing demand will further test military capabilities and readiness amidst ongoing climate challenges, as reported by Channel News Asia and Le Monde.

Moreover, it has been estimated that the carbon "bootprint" of militaries could contribute up to 5.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with the Pentagon producing more emissions than several nations. Concerns about fossil fuel dependency and the operational risks associated with fuel convoys significantly complicate military logistics and strategy, as noted by Channel News Asia and Le Monde.