Like Clockwork: Commando Helicopter Force delivers lifeline to remote Arctic cabin

High in the rugged landscape of Northern Norway sits the Dividalshytta cabin, 1,500 metres above sea level and more than 10 miles from the nearest road.

For such a remote place, obtaining firewood is almost impossible; cue the Commando Helicopter Force and a hardy team of volunteers.

This logging task is carried out annually during Operation Clockwork, not only providing valuable training for personnel in Arctic conditions but also giving back to the local Norwegian community by delivering approximately three to four years' worth of logs to the cabin in Øvre Dividal National Park.

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Safety in remote areas 

The cabins are run by the Norwegian Trekking Association, Norway's biggest hiking and outdoor activity organisation. 

They offer members the use of cabins and lodges while hiking or cross-country skiing, offering them shelter, warmth and safety within the unpredictable terrain. 

Found in various mountain areas across the country, some cabins are staffed, while others are either self-service or no-service, meaning essentials such as firewood will be provided, but there will be no provisions, including water.

Officer in Command of Op Clockwork, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Devereux, said: "By bringing in this wood, we're supporting the local community. There is no way of getting the wood to the cabin without the use of the Commando Helicopter Force."

The UK has conducted cold-weather training in Norway for more than 50 years and is a committed and capable partner in the High North.

It is one of only a small number of nations capable of operating in this demanding environment.

All images courtesy of the MOD.