NATO has released an updated maritime strategy that will shape Allied naval posture, capability development and readiness across the Euro Atlantic region, according to the Alliance.
The document elevates collective defence as the organising principle for future maritime planning.
Vice Admiral Mike Utley, Commander of Allied Maritime Command, said the strategy establishes a framework for addressing threats at sea. “NATO’s maritime forces provide integral and credible combat power for the Alliance that underpins our collective defence. This strategy will guide Allied efforts to strengthen capabilities, leverage emerging technology, enhance lethality, and prevail in conflict”, he stated.
The strategy underscores the centrality of maritime power to deterrence, crisis prevention and economic stability. NATO argues that global commerce and critical infrastructure rely on secure sea lanes, and that Allied forces must be prepared to “fight tonight” while building capacity for the next decade.
Russia is described as the most direct threat to Euro Atlantic security, with the Alliance pointing to coercion, hybrid activity and an expanded naval presence stretching from the Baltic and Black Seas to the High North. Terrorism remains the most direct asymmetric danger to Allied populations. The strategy also notes China’s expanding naval activity and its tightening partnership with Moscow.
NATO warns that climate change and emerging technologies are reshaping the strategic environment. Melting Arctic ice, autonomous systems, hypersonic weapons and AI enabled platforms are cited as factors increasing operational complexity and accelerating the pace of adaptation required.
The Alliance intends to strengthen carrier strike, anti submarine warfare, mine warfare and autonomous capabilities. It also emphasises rapid response, force projection and flexibility for missions ranging from maritime interdiction to humanitarian support.
Standing naval forces will continue as NATO’s forward presence at sea, supported by improved surveillance, more integrated information sharing and stronger cooperation with civilian and commercial partners. Digital command and control systems are expected to support faster, better informed decisions.
NATO says delivery of the strategy will occur through the NATO Defence Planning Process, expanded defence investment and closer industrial collaboration among Allies.
Climate change has to be the most serious threat to NATO domination of the Atlantic, we have always worked on the basis of the Atlantic being open at only one end to non European/North American navy and we have a bases and territories at Gibraltar, Ascension, Falklands and Cayman that could control entry however with melting Arctic ice and possibly an ice free Arctic coming soon in summer the North Atlantic will be open a both ends and in easy reach from China.
This makes Atlantic Bastion and the GIUK gap even more vital.
We probably have to take note of Nigeria soon as well. It’s an Atlantic based nation and it’s on track to have a population of 700 million and it will probably be the biggest country in the world by 2100.