The NATO operation "Baltic Sentry" has started in the Baltic Sea. For Sweden's part, the Defence Forces are contributing with corvettes, various types of support vessels, and a radar reconnaissance aircraft.
"For the first time, we are placing surface vessels from the Swedish Navy under direct NATO command in an operation. We are doing this less than a year after joining the alliance and it shows that we are a credible and reliable ally," says Navy Chief Johan Norlén according to a press release.
Finland, in turn, is participating with vessels under national command. Additionally, a Hamina-class missile boat has been made available to NATO, reports Hufvudstadsbladet.
The expansion of NATO's military presence in the Baltic Sea is a response to recent events where underwater cables have been damaged. The operation will continue until further notice.
