According to the Centre for High North Logistics, an Arctic-focused information center based in Kirkenes, Norway, 46 vessels used the NSR in 2012, carrying about 1.26 million tons of cargo.

CNN: China eyes Arctic options in energy, transport

Dallas-Fort Worth's enormous airport lies at the centre of a large number of logistics and distribution centres.

ECONOMIST: Beyond oil

During operations, Nimitz-class carriers sail at the centre of a carrier battle group of ships that includes guided missile cruisers, destroyers, frigates, logistics ships and submarines.

BBC: News | In Depth | Military Fact Files