NATO intelligence experts have raised concerns about Russia’s development of underwater nuclear missile systems that could potentially be hidden on the Arctic seabed. The 32-member NATO alliance, established in 1949 to counter Soviet threats, now focuses on protecting its members by treating an attack on one as an attack on all, forming a cornerstone of Western security.
Reports from EurAsia Daily indicate that NATO intelligence agencies have been monitoring the Russian Northern Fleet for signs of placing nuclear-capable missiles on the seabed under an initiative codenamed “Scythians,” possibly operational for years. These missiles are expected to be stationed in the Arctic Ocean within Russian territorial waters, potentially concealed in specially designed mines or containers.
It is speculated that once deployed, these missiles could remain submerged for extended periods and be launched remotely. Placing missile launchers on the seabed would make them highly elusive and challenging to detect or disable during conflicts.
Recent activities by Russia, including test-firing nuclear-capable missiles like ‘Yars’ and ‘Sineva’ ICBMs, as well as hypersonic missiles from the ‘Zircon’ and ‘Kinzhal’ systems, have added to global tensions. Belarus, a Russian ally participating in joint military drills, also conducted a test launch of an ‘Iskander’ missile, as NATO fighters were put on alert in Lithuania due to drone sightings from Belarus.
These developments come amid escalating threats between Russia and NATO, particularly with Lithuania, raising concerns about a potential military confrontation in the Baltic region. The situation remains fluid as both sides engage in military exercises and maneuvers.