NATO has launched a new operation in the Baltic Sea, with Belgium playing a key role in the mission, the Belgian Navy announced on Wednesday via X.
The operation focuses on securing critical submarine infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, particularly in light of recent sabotage concerns, such as the damage to submarine cables between Estonia and Finland on 25 December.
Under Belgian command, NATO’s first mine countermeasures fleet will play a central role in the mission. Two ships are currently operating under Belgian command, with plans to expand the fleet. In particular, the Belgian minehunter *Lobelia* will participate in the operation, demonstrating Belgium’s strong commitment to regional security and stability.
Allied Command Operations (ACO), which is responsible for conducting NATO’s missions, is leading Baltic Sentry with the aim of deterring future threats from both state and non-state actors. This proactive step underscores NATO’s determination to protect the critical undersea energy and communications infrastructure that is vital to the economic and strategic stability of the region.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte unveiled the operation on Monday after a high-level meeting in Helsinki with leaders of the Baltic Sea nations. He stressed the urgent need for a robust and adaptable military presence to prevent further destabilising actions.
Officers of the Finnish Coast Guard stop a small boat which tried to reach the oil tanker Eagle S anchored near the Kilpilahti port in Porvoo, on the Gulf of Finland December 30, 2024. © Jussi Nukari / Lehtikuva / AFP
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