The Baltic Sea: A Hotbed of Underwater Intrigue
Recent events in the Baltic Sea have raised concerns about the security of critical underwater infrastructure in the region. From damaged pipelines to severed communication cables, a series of mysterious incidents have put Baltic Sea nations on high alert. Let’s take a closer look at some of the major incidents that have occurred since 2022.
September 2022: Nord Stream Blasts
In September 2022, the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines, which carry natural gas from Russia to Germany, were rocked by explosions. Swedish seismologists detected subsea blasts that ruptured three out of four pipelines, releasing methane into the atmosphere. Traces of explosives were found at the site, indicating a deliberate act. While some have speculated about the perpetrators, no one has claimed responsibility for the blasts.
Western officials have suggested Russian involvement, while Russia has blamed the United States, Britain, and Ukraine. In a twist, Germany accused a Ukrainian diving instructor of being part of the team behind the explosions, but he managed to evade arrest.
October 2023: Balticconnector Gas Pipe and Cables
In October 2023, the Balticconnector gas pipeline linking Finland and Estonia was severed by a Chinese container vessel dragging its anchor. The same vessel is suspected of damaging telecom cables connecting Estonia to Finland and Sweden. While investigations are ongoing, the Chinese government’s cooperation has been questioned.
November 2024: Baltic Telecom Cables
In November 2024, undersea fibre-optic communication cables in the Baltic Sea were severed, disrupting internet connectivity between Lithuania and Sweden, as well as Finland and Germany. The Chinese bulk carrier Yi Peng 3 came under suspicion, with investigators pinpointing its route matching the time and location of the breaches. Despite diplomatic tensions, Chinese authorities allowed inspections on board the vessel.
December 2024: Power and Internet Cables
On Christmas Day 2024, the Estlink 2 undersea power cable connecting Finland and Estonia was damaged, along with four telecom lines. A tanker carrying Russian oil, the Eagle S, was seized on suspicion of causing the damage. The incident prompted NATO to increase its presence in the region, while the Kremlin downplayed the significance of the seizure. Finnish authorities continue to investigate the matter.
These incidents highlight the vulnerability of underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea and the geopolitical tensions playing out beneath the surface. As nations grapple with the aftermath of these events, the need for enhanced security measures in the region has become all the more apparent.