In response to growing concerns over the security of undersea pipelines and cables, NATO has inaugurated a new center aimed at safeguarding critical infrastructure. The move comes in the wake of an apparent attack on the Nord Stream pipelines and amidst fears that Russia is surveying vital Western infrastructure in European waters, including energy and internet networks. The decision to establish the center was approved by NATO defense ministers, with Lt. Gen. Hans-Werner Wiermann, who heads a special unit dedicated to this issue, highlighting the evolving nature of the threat. He emphasized that Russian vessels have actively mapped crucial undersea infrastructure, raising fears that they may target these cables and pipelines to disrupt Western nations. The new center, located in Northwood, northwest London, will play a pivotal role in addressing this pressing challenge.
The impetus for NATO’s action can be traced back to the suspected attacks on the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines in the Baltic Sea last September. Although the investigations are ongoing and no official blame has been assigned, NATO has increased its presence in the Baltic and North Seas since the incidents. The alliance has deployed numerous ships, supported by maritime patrol aircraft and cutting-edge undersea equipment like drones, to enhance surveillance capabilities. The sheer magnitude of undersea infrastructure poses a significant challenge. With approximately 8,000 kilometers of oil and gas pipelines crisscrossing the North Sea alone, it is impossible to monitor every inch of these systems around the clock. Moreover, around the world, there are about 100 reported incidents of cable cutting annually, making it difficult to ascertain whether they are deliberate acts.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg acknowledged the limitations of maintaining a physical presence along such extensive undersea infrastructure. However, he stressed that the alliance can leverage intelligence gathering, information sharing, and collaboration with the private sector to strengthen security measures. Stoltenberg emphasized the wealth of information available in the private sector regarding ship movements and maritime surveillance, which can greatly contribute to identifying potential threats. Rather than attempting to monitor the entire expanse, the new center and NATO allies will concentrate on high-risk areas. Pipelines located in shallow waters, easily accessible to divers, are particularly vulnerable. On the other hand, damage to data cables can be mitigated by deploying additional cables. Regardless of the specific target, NATO recognizes the importance of detecting and preventing acts of sabotage during the planning stages.
To support the new center, NATO allies have decided to establish a critical undersea infrastructure network that will foster collaboration among NATO, its member states, and private sector entities. This network will facilitate the exchange of information on emerging risks and threats, thereby enhancing overall preparedness. NATO’s initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding vital undersea infrastructure from potential attacks. By establishing the new center and promoting information sharing, the alliance aims to address the evolving threats posed by hostile actors. As technology continues to advance, NATO’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure remains steadfast, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy and communication vital to Western societies.
