NATO recently conducted one of northern Europe’s largest naval exercises, Freezing Winds, in the Baltic Sea. This 12-day drill involved 30 ships and 4,000 military personnel and focused on protecting critical infrastructure like undersea cables and pipelines. The Baltic Sea, a busy waterway bordered by eight NATO countries and Russia, carries 15% of global shipping traffic and is increasingly seen as a vulnerable zone.
The Threat to Undersea Infrastructure
Since 2022, incidents of damage to vital cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea have raised alarms. These undersea structures, essential for communication and energy transfer, have been damaged at least three times. While accidents like ship anchors dragging cables can cause harm, the possibility of intentional sabotage has made security a priority for NATO.
Globally, around 150 undersea cables are damaged annually. The Baltic Sea, with its shallow waters and heavy ship traffic, is especially at risk. Experts believe any confirmed act of sabotage could signal a return to warfare tactics not seen since World War I.
Responding to Cable and Pipeline Damage
NATO has repurposed its minehunting fleet to monitor underwater activity. These vessels, equipped with sonar, underwater drones, and divers, can inspect and secure the seabed. During the Freezing Winds drill, challenges like harsh winter storms and freezing equipment highlighted the difficulty of such operations. Despite this, NATO forces are improving their preparedness to counter underwater threats.
A recent incident underscores the urgency. On Nov. 18, two communication cables were severed in Swedish waters. NATO forces suspect a Chinese ship might have caused the damage by dragging its anchor. While the ship’s actions are under investigation, no evidence has yet confirmed sabotage. Similar incidents in the past remain unresolved, raising concerns about accountability.
Technological Innovations for Security
NATO is turning to advanced technology to safeguard undersea infrastructure. A Maritime Centre for Security of Critical Undersea Infrastructure (CUI) opened in London in May to map underwater networks and identify weak points. Additionally, software systems are being developed to combine data from satellites, sonar, and fiber optics. These tools aim to detect and respond quickly to any potential threats.
New detection technologies, like Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), help pinpoint cable cuts. This system uses soundwaves to locate breaks and can work alongside satellite imagery and radar. NATO’s focus on blending private and military data ensures a comprehensive picture of underwater activity.
Building Resilience and Redundancies
While it’s impossible to guard every cable and pipeline, NATO emphasizes resilience as the key to countering hybrid threats. Companies are already laying additional cables to create spare routes. These redundancies help maintain operations even if some infrastructure is damaged.
A multinational naval headquarters in Rostock, Germany, further supports NATO’s efforts. Opened in October, it coordinates defense strategies in the Baltic Sea, ensuring quick responses to any incidents.
Challenges in Monitoring the Baltic
Monitoring the Baltic Sea’s infrastructure is not an easy task. Ships and submarines can operate covertly, making it hard to determine if damage is accidental or intentional. Additionally, severe weather conditions, like those seen during the recent naval exercise, complicate operations.
During the Freezing Winds drill, a German vessel struggled to deploy an underwater drone due to freezing temperatures. However, persistence paid off, and the inspection eventually continued. Such challenges highlight the need for ongoing training and investment in equipment suitable for harsh environments.
The Road Ahead
The Baltic Sea remains a critical area for global trade and energy supply. NATO’s efforts to secure this region reflect its commitment to protecting vital infrastructure. By enhancing technology, training, and international cooperation, NATO aims to deter threats and ensure the safety of the Baltic Sea’s undersea network.
While challenges persist, the alliance’s focus on innovation and resilience positions it to address future risks effectively. As undersea cables and pipelines remain vital for modern life, their protection will continue to be a top priority for NATO and its allies.