Britain is to step up its military presence in the Arctic significantly amid concerns about growing Russian aggression “in our back yard”, the Defence Secretary reveals today.

Gavin Williamson told The Sunday Telegraph that the Government was drawing up a “defence Arctic strategy” with 800 commandos being deployed to Norway next year and the instalment of a base in the north of the country.

Mr Williamson highlighted Russia’s re-opening of Soviet-era bases and an “increased tempo” of submarine activity as evidence that Britain needed to “demonstrate we’re there” and “protect our interests”.

Britain’s move is partly in response to concern that, as the Arctic ice retreats, Russia will attempt to intensify its activity there. Melting ice has also sparked a rush to tap into oil reserves under the Arctic ice sheet.

The strategy – to be detailed by Mr Williamson in a speech to the Conservative party conference today – is intended to allow Britain to effectively monitor Russian submarine activity and ensure that the Armed Forces are “well placed” to respond to any threats.