(Nordholz, Lower Saxony) – Russia is reportedly conducting hybrid operations in the Baltic Sea on an almost daily basis, posing a continuous challenge to NATO and Western allies, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated during a visit to a military base in Nordholz.
Pistorius emphasized that Russian hybrid attacks target Western nations in the Baltic Sea region almost every day. He expressed concern over segments of the German population’s reluctance to acknowledge the persistent nature of these threats.
“Russia conducts hybrid attacks against Western states. There are some in Germany who still do not want to accept this, but this happens every day in the Baltic Sea, and not only here,” the defense minister remarked.
Pistorius extended his support for NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s call to bolster the Alliance’s presence in the region. He stated that this would send an unmistakable message of zero tolerance for sabotage and destruction targeting critical infrastructure. According to the minister, NATO’s response to such acts would be “joint and resolute.”
Germany has pledged to play a key role in countering the evolving threats. Pistorius highlighted the German Navy’s efforts within NATO’s Operation Baltic Watch since the onset of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. These operations involve advanced sea and underwater patrol missions, supported by German ships, specialized aircraft, and helicopters.
Key Assets in NATO’s Baltic Sea Operations
| Asset | Role | Current Status/Planned Additions |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Lion Helicopters | Surveillance and reconnaissance | Deployed |
| NH-90 NTH Sea Tiger Helicopters | Multi-role missions | Deployment begins in 2025, total of 31 by 2030 |
| P-8A Poseidon Aircraft | Maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare | Replacing P-3C Orion by 2030 |
The Nordholz base already houses Sea Lion helicopters, and it will soon accommodate NH-90 NTH Sea Tiger helicopters this year. By 2030, these advanced helicopters will fully replace the Sea Lynx Mk88A models. Additionally, P-8A Poseidon aircraft will assume the role of maritime patrols currently carried out by P-3C Orions.
Looking ahead, the upcoming Baltic Summit of NATO member states in Helsinki on January 14, 2025, will focus on safeguarding critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. Agenda items include evaluating further NATO presence in the region and developing strategies to counter the “Russian shadow fleet.” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will represent Germany, joining other leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and the Vice President of the EU Commission.
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