The NATO is responding to increasing damage to undersea cables in the Baltic Sea with a new initiative. This includes using unmanned boats to make the waters safer, even operating autonomously. The project is called Baltic Sentry, and several NATO member states aim to counter sabotage attempts with a “robust and determined response.” According to French Admiral Pierre Vandier, the commander of NATO’s Allied Command Transformation, the unmanned surface vessels (USVs) will begin operations in a few weeks. He described the effort as “an operational experiment in response to an operational problem.”
A comprehensive surveillance network will be created, combining video, radar data, and analysis systems. This will enable various actors, such as industry, coast guard, or police, to receive faster information for further actions, Vandier explained. The exact model of the USVs has not been determined yet. Initially, these USVs will be under human control, but there are plans for them to operate with “greater autonomy” in the future. They will complement the existing Baltic Sentry operation, which already includes several surface vessels and reconnaissance aircraft.
The initiative is supported by Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden. The United Kingdom is already using artificial intelligence to combat sabotage attempts. In the “Nordic Warden” operation, data from various sources, such as the Automatic Identification System (AIS) of ships, is analyzed using AI to assess risks posed by ships entering “areas of interest.”
In late November, a data cable between Finland and Germany, as well as one between Sweden and Lithuania, was reportedly damaged by a Chinese ship. Then, during the Christmas period, four undersea cables off the coast of Finland failed.
The NATO initiative reflects the growing concern over the security of critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea region. Undersea cables are vital for communication and data transfer between countries. Any disruption can have significant economic and security consequences. The use of unmanned boats and advanced technology like AI is part of a broader strategy to enhance monitoring and security measures in the region.
The Baltic Sea is a strategically important area, with many countries relying on it for trade and communication. The presence of NATO member states and their commitment to securing these waters highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing security challenges. The Baltic Sentry project demonstrates the alliance’s adaptability and readiness to employ innovative solutions to protect critical infrastructure.
Unmanned surface vessels offer several advantages in surveillance and security operations. They can operate in dangerous or hard-to-reach areas without risking human lives. Their ability to function autonomously, once fully developed, will further enhance their effectiveness in monitoring large areas over extended periods.
As technology advances, the integration of AI and autonomous systems in security operations is likely to increase. These technologies can process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, providing real-time insights and enabling faster decision-making. This is crucial in situations where timely responses are necessary to prevent or mitigate threats.
The Baltic Sentry initiative represents a proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. By leveraging technology and international collaboration, NATO aims to deter potential threats and ensure the security and stability of the region. This initiative is a testament to the alliance’s commitment to innovation and collective defense in an ever-evolving security landscape.