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Sweden Deploys Patrol Vessel HSwMS Carlskrona with NATO to Secure Underwater Infrastructure in Baltic Sea.
The ocean patrol vessel HSwMS Carlskrona marks a step in Sweden's maritime engagement by becoming, for the second time in the country’s history, a ship placed under the command of COM SNMG1 (Commander of Standing NATO Maritime Group 1). This integration aligns with NATO’s efforts to secure critical underwater infrastructure during the Baltic Sentry exercise, a mission designed to address security challenges in the Baltic Sea, particularly the protection of communication cables and pipelines against potential attacks or sabotage.
With its integration into SNMG1, HSwMS Carlskrona plays a key role in the Baltic Sentry, illustrating Sweden’s growing involvement in NATO’s maritime security framework (Picture source: US DoD)
Originally designed as a minelayer and training ship, HSwMS Carlskrona was later converted into an ocean patrol vessel to meet the evolving needs of the Swedish Navy. Measuring 105.7 meters in length and with a displacement of 3,150 tons, it is the longest ship in the Swedish Navy, although the submarine rescue vessel HSwMS Belos has a greater displacement.
It is deployed for maritime surveillance, training, and international operations, notably under NATO and European Union mandates. Its flight deck accommodates an AW109LUH (HKP15B) helicopter, enhancing its reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and logistical support capabilities. The ship is armed with two Bofors 40mm guns, complemented by fire control systems with radar and infrared sensors for operational defense in complex maritime environments.
The HSwMS Carlskrona’s propulsion system enables a maximum speed of 20 knots (37 km/h), providing the flexibility required for extended patrol and surveillance missions. The vessel has undergone several modernization phases, including a refit in 2002 and another between 2016 and 2017, extending its service life until 2025.
Its crew, consisting of 45 officers, 40 cadets, and 85 conscripts, allows Sweden to combine training missions with maritime security operations, reinforcing operational expertise in international deployments. The ship has been engaged in several missions, serving as flagship for the EUNAVFOR operation in the Gulf of Aden in 2010 before joining NATO’s Standing Naval Forces in 2024 as part of Baltic Sentry, reflecting its role in protecting critical underwater infrastructure.
As part of SNMG1, the HSwMS Carlskrona strengthens Sweden’s strategic engagement in allied naval operations. This participation allows the Swedish Navy to benefit from NATO's operational expertise and standardized procedures while contributing to deterrence, surveillance, and protection efforts for critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. In a region experiencing growing security concerns and threats to underwater networks, Sweden is progressively integrating into NATO’s collective defense structures, consolidating its role in European maritime security.
NATO has launched Baltic Sentry, an initiative to enhance the security of critical underwater infrastructure in the region. Announced during the Baltic Sea NATO Allies Summit in Helsinki, this mission responds to rising threats, including recent sabotage incidents targeting undersea power and communication cables. Baltic Sentry aims to increase NATO’s military presence in the Baltic Sea, deploying frigates, maritime patrol aircraft, and a fleet of naval drones to enhance surveillance capabilities and rapid response to destabilization attempts.
Beyond military measures, Baltic Sentry prioritizes allied cooperation, integrating national surveillance assets and strengthening information sharing with industry through the Critical Underwater Infrastructure Information Exchange Network. This coordination seeks to anticipate and counter threats while improving the resilience of essential infrastructure in the region. NATO is also reinforcing maritime law enforcement, with Secretary General Mark Rutte stating that any threat to underwater infrastructure could result in interception, seizure, or immobilization of suspect vessels.
The Baltic Sea geopolitical landscape has become increasingly complex, marked by heightened tensions between NATO and Russia, particularly since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and the accession of Finland and Sweden to NATO. This region, critical for maritime trade and energy supply, has turned into a strategic area of contention between major powers. In response to Russia’s suspected undersea surveillance and cyber activities, NATO is reinforcing its naval and security presence in the region through initiatives such as Baltic Sentry. Meanwhile, Russia has expanded its naval activities and military exercises, making the Baltic Sea a significant friction point in European security.
With its integration into SNMG1, HSwMS Carlskrona plays a key role in the Baltic Sentry, illustrating Sweden’s growing involvement in NATO’s maritime security framework. By combining surveillance, protection, and allied coordination, this initiative aims to safeguard strategic infrastructure, maintain regional stability, and enhance deterrence against destabilization efforts. Sweden’s increasing participation in NATO operations reflects a broader shift in its defense posture, aligning with the security priorities of the Alliance and its European partners.