A Russian ship fired signalling ammunition at a German Bundeswehr helicopter conducting a reconnaissance mission in the Baltic Sea. The incident took place while the helicopter was on a routine operation. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock confirmed the attack but offered limited details, mentioning it briefly during a NATO meeting in Brussels.
In response, Baerbock announced increased surveillance of pipelines and data cables in the Baltic Sea. This measure aims to address the rising hybrid threats from Russia and its supporters. The use of signalling ammunition, she noted, is allowed only in emergency situations.
Escalating Tensions and Suspicion of Sabotage
Baerbock condemned the attack, writing on social media: “Putin is attacking our peace order with hybrid attacks.” This event highlights the growing tensions in the region. Last month, two critical communication cables in the Baltic Sea were damaged in quick succession. These cables, linking Finland and Germany and Sweden and Lithuania, were severed within 24 hours, raising suspicions of sabotage.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius labeled the severing of the communication cable between Germany and Finland as “sabotage.” He suggested the involvement of “hybrid actors,” though the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
Sweden, Germany, and Lithuania are investigating the Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3, which was near the damaged cables when the incident occurred.
Russia’s Hybrid Warfare Tactics
Many European governments and NATO’s Secretary-General have accused Russia of intensifying hybrid attacks on Western countries. These activities have escalated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, Moscow has denied involvement in these attacks.
Hybrid warfare refers to methods that destabilize nations without traditional military action. These tactics include cyberattacks, infrastructure sabotage, and misinformation campaigns, all aimed at weakening a state without triggering direct conflict.