Narvik is set to undergo a significant stress test as part of the larger Cold Response 2026 military exercise, focusing on the reception of NATO forces and the evacuation of injured soldiers. Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen emphasized the importance of total defense and resilience, stating that these exercises serve to prepare both military and civilian sectors for potential wartime scenarios. The local population will witness firsthand the implications of total defense and resilience concepts during the exercise, reinforcing community readiness alongside military preparedness.

Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik highlighted that civilians must be equally prepared as the military in a wartime situation. A notable aspect of the exercise on March 6 is the arrival of a ro/ro ship carrying military vehicles from the USA and Germany into the port of Narvik. Due to the constraints of the city's infrastructure, the military vehicles must navigate through the center of Narvik without the option of detour routes, showcasing the logistical challenges faced during military mobilization in urban settings.

Further testing of the local healthcare system is scheduled for March 12, where a significant number of 'injured' soldiers will be evacuated via train from Northern Finland through Sweden. This simulated event will not only test the emergency response capabilities of Narvik's healthcare facilities but also aim to integrate civilian resources in handling possible crises, illustrating a comprehensive approach to national security and community involvement in defense strategies.