NATO bolsters defenses against rising hybrid threats from Russia
The growing threat from Russia is forcing NATO to develop a new strategy to protect critical infrastructure. Hybrid attacks, such as 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 include sabotage of infrastructure like seabed cables and pipelines, along with cyberattacks. In response, the Alliance is devising a new protection strategy.
A high-ranking NATO official emphasized that Russia is not the only threat. China, Iran, and North Korea are also engaging in hybrid activities. Protecting critical infrastructure on the seabeds of the oceans is a particular challenge. For years, Russia has been developing an underwater scientific research program that, in reality, serves to map NATO's infrastructure.
The Russians possess advanced technologies, including underwater ships 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, necessitating more effective countermeasures.
NATO's new strategy
NATO is working on a new strategy that aims to help identify perpetrators of hybrid attacks and strengthen resilience to them. Allies have adopted high standards for protecting critical infrastructure against cyberattacks. The new strategy will include response models to hybrid attacks 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 recognizes the threat from China, which in two instances destroyed cables owned by NATO countries in Europe. Work on the strategy is ongoing at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.
The past two years have seen numerous incidents related to the security of critical underwater infrastructure located on the Baltic Sea floor. One of the most recent occurred on November 17. At that time, an underwater telecommunications cable running along the Baltic Sea floor between Lithuania and Sweden was damaged. An intensive investigation is underway to determine whether it was accidentally damaged or resulted from deliberate action.
