ABOARD A FRENCH NAVY FLIGHT OVER THE BALTIC SEA (AP) — The French Navy surveillance plane recently conducted a mission over the Baltic Sea, utilizing its advanced camera technology to closely monitor maritime activities. The aircraft, an Atlantique 2, covered a vast area from Germany to Estonia, emphasizing NATO's increased vigilance in safeguarding underwater energy and data cables in the region.
The Baltic Sea hosts crucial infrastructure such as power and communications cables, as well as gas pipelines connecting nine countries. These cables play a vital role in sustaining economies, facilitating communication, and supporting financial transactions globally.
NATO's concern stems from a series of recent incidents involving damage to Baltic cables, raising suspicions of deliberate sabotage. While some attribute the damage to maritime accidents caused by poorly maintained ships, there are fears of potential Russian involvement as part of a broader strategy of hybrid warfare.
Notable incidents include the damaging of a fiber optic cable connecting Latvia and Gotland, allegedly by an oil tanker suspected to be part of Russia's covert fleet. Finnish authorities seized the tanker, linking it to the cable damage.
Despite intelligence officials suggesting accidental causes for the damage, NATO has launched the “Baltic Sentry” mission to enhance surveillance and deterrence in the region. The mission involves deploying warships, aircraft, and drones to monitor maritime activities and protect critical undersea infrastructure.
As the European Subsea Cables Association highlights the frequency of subsea cable damage globally, the recent focus on Baltic cables underscores the need for heightened security measures to safeguard these essential connections.
