According to a press release from NATO’s Allied Command Operations (ACO), a new operation titled Baltic Sentry has been launched in the Baltic Sea to deter potential threats to critical undersea infrastructure.
The operation comes in response to damage sustained by undersea cables connecting Estonia and Finland on 25 December 2024. This follows a declaration of solidarity with the two countries on 30 December and the Baltic Sea NATO Allies Summit held in Helsinki.
As quoted in the release, “Baltic Sentry will deliver focused deterrence throughout the Baltic Sea and counter destabilising acts like those observed last month,” said US Army General Christopher G. Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. “It is indicative of the Alliance’s ability to rapidly respond to such destabilisation, and shows the strength of our unity in the face of any challenge.”
The press update specifies that Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS) is leading the operation, coordinating multi-domain activities, with Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) assuming a pivotal role in the maritime domain.
Additionally, the NATO Maritime Centre for Security of Critical Underwater Infrastructure (NMCSCUI) is assisting by supporting decision-making and action coordination to safeguard essential infrastructure.
The news update highlights that although Baltic Sentry is a new initiative, NATO forces already maintain a persistent presence in the Baltic Sea. Routine patrols and joint exercises are supported by advanced maritime surveillance technology, ensuring operational readiness across the region.
Sweden, NATO’s newest member, was acknowledged in the release for its significant maritime contributions and continued commitment to European and transatlantic security. The update underlined Sweden’s role in promoting stability in the Baltic Sea region, bolstered by its strong maritime heritage.
This operation, as noted in the NATO release, demonstrates the Alliance’s determination to adapt swiftly and collectively address evolving security challenges. Baltic Sentry is set to underline NATO’s resilience, unity, and ability to safeguard critical infrastructure through enhanced collaboration among its members.
A task a River might actually be useful for?
Keeping an overt eye on things?
Yes; presence = deterrence. The SDR need to decide on what T32 design concept we are going for. Way back, wasn’t the original idea for a mixed frigate fleet for C1 ASW, C2 GP and a 2-3000 ton C3 – a corvette cum OPV cum MCMV. A batch 3 River?
Yes, that’s how I remember it.