NATO Forces maintain persistent presence in the Baltic Sea, conducting regular patrols and joint exercises to enhance readiness. Allied warships, submarines and aircraft, supported by advanced maritime surveillance technology, are continuously monitoring waters throughout the region.
Ships from Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1) and Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) will participate in Baltic Sentry along with Allied maritime patrol craft operating under MARCOM and national support.
In addition, the NATO Maritime Centre for Security of Critical Undersea Infrastructure (NMCSCUI), a networking and knowledge centre based at MARCOM, will assist NATO Allies in making decisions and coordinating action relating to CUI protection and response.
NATO announced Baltic Sentry 2025, a multi-domain vigilance activity aimed at increasing maritime situational awareness in the Baltic Sea area, to deter and defend against attacks on Critical Undersea Infrastructures (CUI).
The Baltic Sea is a vital hub for trade and energy transit connecting numerous Allied nations. The sea serves as a conduit for energy supplies, particularly natural gas and oil, and supports key underwater cables that transmit data between Europe, North America and beyond. These elements are crucial not only to the economies of the region, but also to the security of NATO Allies and Partners. With increasing reliance on undersea cables and pipelines, protecting this critical infrastructure is a continuing priority for NATO.
NATO continues to invest in the latest military technology, including Artificial Intelligence, to detect and minimize threats to undersea infrastructure. This includes specialised sonar systems, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), and advanced sensors that provide real-time intelligence on underwater activity.
The Alliance regularly conducts joint exercises involving maritime, air and land forces. These exercises not only test military capabilities, but also strengthen the coordination and interoperability of NATO forces.