NATO bolsters defences against rising Russian hybrid threats
The growing threat from Russia is compelling NATO to develop a new strategy to protect critical infrastructure. Hybrid attacks, including sabotage and cyberattacks, are becoming more frequent.
According to the Polish Press Agency, NATO countries are facing an increasing threat from Russia, which is intensifying hybrid attacks. These attacks include sabotage of infrastructure such as seabed cables and pipelines, and cyberattacks. In response, the Alliance is working on a new protection strategy.
A high-ranking NATO official emphasised that Russia is not the only threat. China, Iran, and North Korea are also conducting hybrid activities. Protecting critical infrastructure on the oceans' seabeds is a particular challenge. For years, Russia has been developing an underwater scientific research programme that, in reality, maps NATO's infrastructure.
The Russians have advanced technologies, including underwater vessels and drones, which can damage cables or pipelines. In response, NATO has established a new maritime command in the United Kingdom, which aims to protect underwater installations.
NATO has collaborated with companies managing underwater infrastructure, allowing for real-time information exchange. The Alliance is conducting joint exercises with them and working on improving technology, including the use of artificial intelligence. The frequency of sabotage acts is rising, requiring more effective countermeasures.
NATO's new strategy
NATO is developing a new strategy to help identify perpetrators of hybrid attacks and strengthen resilience to them. Allies have adopted high standards for protecting critical infrastructure against cyberattacks. The strategy will include response models and exercises for these responses.
NATO member states will make decisions on responding to attacks. They can act individually or seek collective support. NATO also recognises the threat from China, which in two cases destroyed cables owned by NATO countries in Europe. Work on the strategy is ongoing at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.
The past two years have brought numerous incidents related to the security of critical underwater infrastructure on the Baltic Sea floor. One of the most recent occurred on 17 November. An underwater telecommunications cable running along the Baltic Sea floor between Lithuania and Sweden was damaged at that time. An intensive investigation is underway to determine whether it was accidentally damaged or resulted from deliberate action.
