INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN THE RUSSIAN ARCTIC: A TREND TOWARD INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

The development of the region holds significant potential for strengthening Russia’s industry by enabling the adoption and application of advanced technologies in key industrial sectors. The launch and expansion of both new and existing Arctic projects are expected to make a substantial contribution to Russia’s becoming technologically sovereign. Equally important, however, is the challenge of fostering regional economic growth through the integrated development of infrastructure projects. The goal of this research is to examine existing and prospective infrastructure projects within the Russian Arctic, focusing on their current status. By analyzing the present state of Arctic infrastructure projects, the study identifies key trends in the evolution of production and transport infrastructure supporting large-scale initiatives in the region. Particular attention is paid to the dynamics of cargo transportation along the Northern Sea Route (NSR), emphasizing its advantages compared to the traditional maritime corridor through the Suez Canal. The research also reviews the implementation of major and emerging oil and gas projects in the Arctic, with a focus on how sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union have required adjustments to the rollout of large infrastructure initiatives. Methodologically, the study employs standard research tools, including comparison, synthesis, and systematization. The practical significance of the research lies in clarifying the prospects for implementing infrastructure projects that support the country’s industry in the Arctic under current external constraints. Future research will concentrate on assessing the environmental, social, and corporate risks associated with specific Arctic projects in the energy sector.