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NATO launches Baltic Sentry mission to protect undersea cables

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NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced on Tuesday a new mission, Baltic Sentry, to safeguard undersea cables in the Baltic Sea region.

Recent incidents of disconnected undersea cables in the Baltic Sea highlight their vulnerability. NATO surrounds the region, earning it the nickname “NATO lake.”

Russia’s significant presence, particularly from its Kaliningrad exclave, adds to strategic concerns.

Undersea cables, though often unseen, are vital for internet services, global communications, and countless aspects of modern life.

NATO states that 99 percent of the world’s data flows through these cables, making them critical targets. These cables are susceptible to hybrid warfare.

Baltic Sentry aims to address these growing risks.

The mission plans to deploy around 10 ships to monitor energy and data cables in the Baltic Sea.

Finnish broadcaster YLE reported this information on Tuesday.

The vessels are expected to remain in the area for up to four months.

According to the report, the alliance operation could begin as early as this week, underscoring NATO’s urgency in addressing vulnerabilities amid recent incidents in the region.

In refence to Baltic Sentry, Rutte said during a meeting in Helsinki with leaders of NATO countries bordering the Baltic Sea “It will involve a range of assets, including frigates and maritime patrol aircraft, among others, and will enhance our vigilance in the Baltic.”

The mission will also deploy a small fleet of naval drones “to provide enhanced surveillance and deterrence,” Rutte added.

The initiative comes amid rising concerns over potential Russian activities following a series of incidents in the Baltic.