In early July, several U.S. military bases in Europe were placed on high alert following intelligence suggesting potential sabotage from groups supported by Russia. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg recently highlighted a troubling increase in Russian aggression, including arson and sabotage attempts, during a summit. He described these actions as part of a broader intimidation strategy by Russia aimed at weakening allied support for Ukraine. Stoltenberg emphasized the need for vigilance and noted that NATO allies are now sharing intelligence to counter these threats effectively.
Recently, the German military aid center at Köln-Wahn Air Force Base in North Rhine-Westphalia was briefly closed after a hole was discovered in its fence near the water treatment plant, raising fears of poisoning that were later disproven. Thomas Haldenwang, head of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, has raised concerns about the growing risk of sabotage by the Russian state, noting an increased willingness by Russia to carry out high-damage operations in Europe.
On August 22, Geilenkirchen Base, home to 14 E-3A AWACS early warning aircraft as part of NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control Force, raised its alert level due to a “potential threat.” A police operation was promptly initiated, and an investigation is currently underway.
In May, the Financial Times reported heightened concerns among European intelligence officials about possible “violent sabotage operations” by Russia, potentially involving “proxies,” leading to recurring security alerts. In April, two German-Russian nationals were arrested on suspicion of planning to sabotage U.S. military facilities in Germany, specifically at Grafenwöhr in Bavaria, where Ukrainian soldiers train on M1A1 Abrams tanks.
Norway also faces its own security challenges. Last April, it was revealed that a critical telecommunications cable at Evenes Air Force Base was intentionally severed. Located in northern Norway, Evenes Air Force Base is strategically important for both Norwegian and NATO security due to its proximity to the Arctic and the Barents Sea. This region is crucial because of its natural resources and strategic maritime routes, which are becoming more accessible due to melting ice. The base’s location supports rapid deployment and monitoring in these waters, which are essential for regional stability and security.
The base plays a key role in NATO’s collective defense strategy, particularly in monitoring and countering Russian naval activities. The Barents Sea is a significant operational area for the Russian Northern Fleet, including submarines capable of launching nuclear missiles. Maintaining a strong presence at Evenes enhances NATO’s situational awareness and readiness to respond to potential threats from Russian naval forces, including Yasen-M-class submarines.
Equipped with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, including F-35A stealth fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft like the P-8 Poseidon, Evenes Air Force Base is crucial for anti-submarine warfare. These assets help NATO track and deter Russian submarines that could threaten the North Atlantic and Arctic regions’ security. The base also facilitates joint training and exercises among NATO allies, improving interoperability and coordination. This collaborative approach strengthens the alliance’s defense posture and prepares forces to address potential Russian aggression.
According to Fremover, the Norwegian newspaper that first reported the cable damage, the cut was found outside the base perimeter. Police have no suspects at this time. “The investigation is complex and is now being handled by the Attorney General of Nordland,” a government official said.
Norway has faced similar incidents before. In 2022, an underwater communication cable connecting Andøya to the Svalbard archipelago was deliberately cut. The year prior, a cable from Norway’s underwater surveillance network disappeared, and between 2017 and 2018, Russian bombers simulated attacks on radars at Vardø Island at least twice.
