This involves ships and aircraft assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1). SNMG1 is currently under the command of Dutch commander Arjen Warnaar. Additionally, HNLMS De Ruyter is the flagship of SNMG1, and there are also Dutch personnel working in the staff.

Warnaar emphasizes the importance of NATOs maritime presence in the region. “Our operations in the Arctic and High North reflect the alliances enduring commitment to peace, stability, and freedom of navigation. Operating in this region requires resilience, adaptability, and seamless cooperation – qualities that NATO units continue to demonstrate every day.”

SNMG1 is one of the 4 permanent maritime task groups of NATO. The fleet conducts patrols and practices integrated maritime operations. The fleet is also present to deter destabilizing activities.

NATOs maritime presence in the region reflects the growing international attention for the Arctic. The goal is to keep this strategically vital region safe, accessible, and peaceful. At the same time, the alliance is enhancing its maritime awareness across the region to better understand the environment and increase readiness to respond to emergencies.

Ensuring the safety of the NATO alliance does not only happen at the eastern borders. By sea, the northern flank is an easily accessible area that must be well defended. This prevents Europe from being vulnerable to threats from the North.