A hamina class craft. Photo: The Finnish Defence Forces
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The Finnish Navy has strengthened its role in NATO’s Baltic Sentry mission, deploying a Hamina-class missile boat to enhance regional security and protect critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.
The operation, part of NATO’s enhanced Vigilance Activity, aims to increase deterrence and safeguard vital sea connections.
Finnish participation includes both nationally led missions and joint operations under NATO command. For the first time, a Finnish Navy vessel will join Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1), operating in the region through January and February.
“NATO’s contribution to Baltic Sea surveillance demonstrates the alliance’s readiness to respond to evolving challenges,” said Captain (N) Marko Laaksonen, Deputy Chief of Staff Navy Operations. “This cooperation ensures the safety of critical infrastructure and sea connections essential to us all.”
The Hamina-class missile boat, known for its shallow draft and manoeuvrability, is well-suited for the Baltic’s complex waterways. Initially developed for Finland’s archipelagic environment, the vessel will participate alongside larger NATO ships, reinforcing the alliance’s maritime presence.
Baltic Sentry comes amid heightened tensions in the region following incidents such as the 2023 Balticconnector gas pipeline sabotage and damage to undersea power and data cables. The mission includes increased surveillance, exercises with allies, and information-sharing to deter potential threats.
The operation was launched after the January 2025 Baltic Sea Allies Summit in Helsinki, co-hosted by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal. Addressing recent security challenges, Rutte warned that threats to infrastructure would have “serious consequences,” including potential arrests and ship impoundments.
Finnish vessels will join other NATO forces, including Dutch-led units and Sweden’s HMS Visby corvette, in safeguarding the Baltic Sea’s critical infrastructure. Surveillance operations will adapt to mission demands, with multiple Finnish Navy ships rotating over the coming months.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
