First Sea Lord announces integrated "Partnership of Northern Navies" to strengthen deterrence against escalating Russian activity in European waters.
A new joint naval force involving ten countries in northern Europe will be launched in the UK in response to the Russian maritime threat. This was disclosed by First Sea Lord Gwyn Jenkins during his address at RUSI in London last week. He outlined a proposal to upgrade the current Joint Expeditionary Force into a "Partnership of Northern Navies," which will ensure that Northwest Europe, the North Atlantic, and the High North are safeguarded against any Russian encroachment.
The Russian maritime threat has compelled countries such as the United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden to unite under a new force. Chiefs of navies from northern European countries have signed an intent letter, indicating their commitment to formulate concrete proposals. Jenkins intends to obtain declarations from all members by the end of the year to lay the groundwork for a strong and lasting partnership in maritime security. According to him, "we know we have no time to lose." "By year-end, I want us all to have signed a formal declaration, laying foundations for what will be a vital and enduring partnership," Jenkins added.
There have been a third more Russian intrusions into the waters of the UK in the last two years, and there are several Royal Navy interventions in response in 2025. The Royal Navy has interfered in operations by Russian submarines when all eyes were elsewhere. Jenkins noted that greater integration would provide the "collective combat power" and create a credible deterrent on Europe’s "open sea frontier" with Russia. The envisaged alliance will supplement NATO without duplication of efforts.
Business Honor notes that, Such a maritime alliance will be a landmark in European defense policy, bringing together the nations of the north in response to increasing Russian threats.
.webp)
