NATO launches Baltic Sentry programme to protect undersea infrastructure
NATO secretary general Mark Rutte has announced a major new initiative to protect critical undersea energy and communications cables in the Baltic Sea amid growing concerns about suspected sabotage.
The Baltic Sentry programme is a coordinated operation that will deploy frigates, maritime patrol aircraft and a fleet of naval drones to increase surveillance and deter further attacks.
The announcement followed a high-level meeting in Helsinki with leaders of NATO countries bordering the Baltic Sea. While details on the number of assets involved were not disclosed in order to maintain strategic advantage, Rutte stressed the need for a robust and flexible military presence to prevent further destabilising actions.
Hybrid warfare
In recent months, several undersea cables, including the EstLink 2 electricity link between Finland and Estonia, have been damaged in what experts say is part of Russia's hybrid warfare tactics. The incidents have raised alarm among European leaders and prompted NATO to step up its commitment to securing critical infrastructure in the region.
The Baltic Sentry programme is an important step in addressing these threats, combining advanced naval technology with a coordinated international effort. The investigation into the sabotage is ongoing.
© PHOTO AFP
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