On January 28, 2025, NATO announced an increased security presence in the Baltic Sea following the damage of 11 underwater cables since October 2023. The French Navy’s Atlantique 2 surveillance aircraft conducted patrols to monitor the area, emphasizing NATO’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure against potential sabotage.
- French Navy patrols Baltic Sea for NATO.
- Underwater infrastructure faces sabotage threats.
- Recent cable damages raise security concerns.
- Hybrid warfare suspected in Baltic incidents.
- NATO's "Baltic Sentry" enhances maritime surveillance.
- Accidental damage more likely than sabotage.
The Baltic Sea is home to crucial undersea power and communication cables that connect nine nations. Recent incidents have raised alarms about the safety of this infrastructure, with NATO responding by deploying surveillance aircraft and naval vessels. The cables are essential for economic stability, carrying significant amounts of data and energy across borders.
Since October 2023, the following incidents have been reported:
- 11 underwater cables damaged.
- Notable incidents include damage to cables linking Lithuania to Sweden and Germany to Finland.
- Recent damage to a cable connecting Latvia and Gotland occurred on January 28, 2025.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s determination to protect underwater infrastructure vital for the economic well-being of Baltic nations. While some officials suspect sabotage, others attribute the damage to accidents involving poorly maintained vessels. The European Subsea Cables Association has noted that subsea cables are frequently damaged worldwide, often due to fishing activities or ship anchors.
As NATO’s “Baltic Sentry” mission continues, the alliance aims to enhance surveillance and deterrence in the region, ensuring that any suspicious activities are monitored closely. The ongoing investigations into the recent cable damages will help clarify the causes and improve security measures moving forward.
The recent increase in NATO’s surveillance efforts highlights the growing concern over the security of underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. With multiple incidents reported, the alliance is committed to protecting these vital connections that support economic stability and international communications.
