Brussels, 19 October 2023 (MIA) – NATO and Allies are stepping up patrols in the Baltic Sea following recent damage to undersea infrastructure in the region, the Alliance said Thursday. 

"The increased measures include additional surveillance and reconnaissance flights, including with maritime patrol aircraft, NATO AWACS planes, and drones. A fleet of four NATO minehunters is also being dispatched to the area," reads the press release. 

Acting NATO spokesperson Dylan White said the Alliance continues to monitor the situation closely, and remains in close contact with Allies Estonia and Finland and partner Sweden.

"NATO will continue to adapt its maritime posture in the Baltic Sea and will take all necessary steps to keep Allies safe," said the Alliance. 

Since the Nord Stream sabotage in September 2022, NATO has enhanced patrols near critical undersea infrastructure and has promoted technological innovation – including with drones – to better detect any suspicious activity.