New security platform operational in the North Sea

NorthSeal, the new security platform for the North Sea, has become operational. This initiative of six North Sea countries supported by NATO came into effect on 15 January, the Belgian government has confirmed.

The objective of NorthSeal is to monitor suspicious maritime activities, enable rapid information exchange and coordinate responses. It addresses threats such as sabotage, espionage and risks to critical infrastructure.

“The Cold War seems to be returning, with a new front in the North Sea,” outgoing minister of the North Sea Paul Van Tigchelt of Flemish liberals Open VLD said on Tuesday, referring to recent Russian activities and Baltic Sea sabotage.

The initiative originated in 2023 when Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, the United Kingdom and Denmark signed a security pact at the North Sea Summit in Ostend. NorthSeal was established after a test phase.

The 2023 North Sea Summit in Ostend © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE
The 2023 North Sea Summit in Ostend © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE

In addition to the six participating countries, NATO has access to the platform’s information. "The protection of our critical infrastructure in the North Sea is vital for our energy supply, internet, communication and security. Sitting still is not an option," Van Tigchelt said.

Looking ahead, he wants to expand the security pact to include more countries and to have an increased military presence in the North Sea. "I hope that the next government will work on this," he said.


North Sea shipping route © PHOTO IMAGEBROKER


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