NATO Launches 'Baltic Sentry' to Protect Critical Infrastructure in Baltic Sea with New Military Assets

Jan 14, 2025, 04:40 PM

NATO has announced the launch of a new military operation named 'Baltic Sentry' aimed at enhancing security in the Baltic Sea region. This initiative comes in response to a series of incidents involving damage to critical undersea infrastructure, including power cables, telecom links, and gas pipelines. The operation will involve the deployment of frigates, maritime patrol aircraft, naval drones, and other assets to monitor and protect these vital assets. The decision was made at a summit in Helsinki attended by leaders from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden, along with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The operation is part of NATO's ongoing efforts to increase maritime presence and surveillance in key areas, with a focus on deterring and responding to threats against critical infrastructure. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted concerns over a Russian hybrid strategy, including the use of a 'shadow fleet' of tankers. Recent incidents include damage to the Estlink-2 cable between Finland and Estonia, and the region sees about 2,000 ships daily, complicating surveillance efforts.