Additional Coverage:
- NATO turned to elite divers to test sabotage protections for critical undersea cables increasingly at risk (newsbreak.com)
NATO Safeguards Underwater Infrastructure
NATO has trained elite divers to protect critical underwater infrastructure, such as cables and pipelines, from sabotage. Recent incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of these lines, prompting NATO to seek solutions.
Exercise Bold Machina 2024
In November, divers tested new sensors designed to detect underwater threats. They also trained to operate in environments where their movements could be detected. The exercise aimed to counter advancements in underwater detection technology.
Underwater Threats
Western officials have grown concerned about damage to underwater infrastructure, with Russia and China suspected of involvement. Recent incidents include damaged cables linking Finland and Estonia.
Critical Infrastructure
Undersea cables are vital for global communications and the economy. They carry a vast amount of data and facilitate financial transactions. The damage to cables can disrupt international connectivity and economic activity.
Protecting Underwater Infrastructure
NATO and other countries are developing strategies to protect underwater infrastructure. British defense officials have established a joint operation to monitor potential threats in the Baltic Sea. Taiwan has also raised concerns about possible sabotage of cables off its coast.
Challenges in the Underwater Domain
Protecting underwater infrastructure is challenging due to the vast and complex nature of the environment. However, NATO and its allies are working to develop effective measures to safeguard critical assets from sabotage and other threats.