Sea Drones Deployed To Protect Underwater Cables
NATO has launched Operation Baltic Sentry to protect undersea power and communications cables in the Baltic Sea from sabotage. The operation includes deploying at least 20 uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) alongside around 12 NATO ships and maritime patrol aircraft. The USVs, equipped with optical and electromagnetic sensors, will enhance situational awareness and share data among stakeholders. This mission follows incidents in late 2024 where Russian-affiliated vessels allegedly damaged critical cables between Finland, Sweden, and Estonia. NATO accelerated the deployment, initially planned for mid-2025, to address the infrastructure’s vulnerability.
In parallel, Taiwan is increasing surveillance of its undersea cable network after a Chinese-owned ship was suspected of cutting a vital internet cable. The Taiwanese Navy and Coast Guard will monitor ship movements, inspect suspicious vessels, and coordinate to prevent further sabotage. These efforts highlight the rising global focus on securing critical undersea infrastructure from emerging threats.