Belgian Navy takes leading role in NATO's Baltic Sentry operation
NATO has launched a new operation in the Baltic Sea, with Belgium playing a key role in the mission, the Belgian Navy announced on Wednesday.
The operation focuses on securing critical submarine infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, particularly in light of recent sabotage concerns, such as the damage to submarine cables between Estonia and Finland on 25 December.
Under Belgian command, NATO's first mine countermeasures fleet will play a central role in the mission. Two ships are currently operating under Belgian command, with plans to expand the fleet. In particular, the minehunter Lobelia will participate in the operation, demonstrating Belgium's commitment to regional security and stability.
Allied Command Operations, which is responsible for conducting NATO's missions, is leading Baltic Sentry with the aim of deterring future threats from both state and non-state actors. This step is part of NATO's determination to protect critical undersea energy and communications infrastructure.
NATO secretary general Mark Rutte unveiled the operation on Monday after a high-level meeting in Helsinki with leaders of the Baltic Sea nations. He stressed the urgent need for a robust and adaptable military presence to prevent further destabilising actions.
Officers of the Finnish coastguard stop a small boat that tried to reach the oil tanker Eagle S anchored near the Kilpilahti port in Porvoo, 30 December 2024 © PHOTO JUSSI NUKARI / LEHTIKUVA / AFP
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