NATO members want to strengthen protection of cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea following several incidents of suspected sabotage. At a meeting in Helsinki, NATO chief Mark Rutte announced the launch of a new military initiative to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure. Under the name ‘Baltic Sentry’, NATO’s military presence in the Baltic Sea region will be expanded to improve the Allies’ ability to respond to destabilizing actions.
At the summit, Rutte explained that recent acts of sabotage had damaged power and communication cables. Still, he expressed confidence that “working with all our allies, we will do whatever it takes to ensure the safety and security of not just our critical infrastructure, but everything we hold dear.” did.
Zu Gast beim Aufklärungs- und Artilleriebataillon 4
The Baltic Sentry integrates a wide range of military capabilities, including frigates and maritime surveillance aircraft. The Secretary-General also announced that new technologies will be deployed, including a fleet of small naval drones. Additionally, NATO will work closely with coastal states to integrate national surveillance resources. The objective is to protect critical undersea infrastructure and improve the ability to respond effectively if needed.
Marke Rutte also emphasized the importance of consistently implementing protective measures. “Captains must understand that potential threats to our infrastructure have consequences, including possible search, seizure and arrest.”
