NATO strengthens baltic defenses with new command centre

CTF Baltic will oversee the naval forces of NATO countries both in peacetime and during crises or conflicts. It will also be responsible for planning maritime operations and training projects. Moreover, the command centre will provide a continuous situational overview of military and civilian shipping traffic in the Baltic Sea, according to the Tagesschau portal,.

In addition to Germany, 11 countries are involved in CTF Baltic: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden.

The new command is not a direct response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine; however, during the opening ceremony, Pistorius highlighted the potential threat from Russia. He stated that CTF Baltic will play a "decisive role in protecting NATO countries' interests against aggression, especially given Russia's close proximity."

More than two years have passed since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and it has become evident that Vladimir Putin's war is not aimed solely at that country. "His real enemy is our free, independent, and democratic way of life," said Pistorius. The minister emphasised that security in the Baltic region is inextricably linked to the security of Europe.

According to information provided by Reuters, approximately 120 German employees will staff the military base on the Baltic in peacetime. An additional 60 personnel will come from other countries.

Reuters notes that a German admiral will lead CTF Baltic, with Rear Admiral Piotr Nieć serving as his deputy for the next two years. Following this period, he will take on the role of chief of staff of CTF Baltic for the subsequent two years.