2023
NATO to increase its presence in Baltic Sea region
NATO will increase its presence in the Baltic Sea region. The planned measures are part of NATO's standard procedures in a situation following damage to underwater infrastructure.
The increased NATO presence will include joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities, activities of the Standing NATO Maritime Groups in marine areas, and other measures to strengthen defence and deterrence.
“NATO will step up its general vigilance in the Baltic Sea region. These measures do not mean that the military threat has increased. The measures planned by NATO have been coordinated in close cooperation with the Finnish defence administration, Estonia and Sweden,” says Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.
An investigation of the criminal mischief against the Balticconnector gas pipeline and the telecommunications cable between Finland and Estonia is ongoing. The investigation is led by the National Bureau of Investigation, with executive assistance from the Finnish Defence Forces and the Border Guard. More information on the investigation and its progress will be provided by the head investigator in due course. If necessary, NATO is also prepared to support its member countries in protecting their critical underwater infrastructure.
Inquiries: Janne Kuusela, Director General, Ministry of Defence, tel. +358 295 140 300. Requests for interviews with the Minister of Defence via Ville Sipiläinen, Special Adviser, tel. +358 40 761 1558.