A Russian ship fired signalling ammunition at a Bundeswehr helicopter during a reconnaissance mission in the Baltic Sea. The attack occurred while the helicopter was carrying out routine operations. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock confirmed the incident, though she provided few details. She mentioned it during a NATO meeting in Brussels.

Following the attack, Baerbock announced on social media that surveillance of pipelines and data cables in the Baltic Sea would be increased. This measure comes in response to escalating hybrid threats from Russia and its allies. The use of signalling ammunition is only allowed in emergencies.

Rising Tensions and Hybrid Threats

Baerbock condemned the attack, stating, “Putin is attacking our peace order with hybrid attacks” on social media. This incident is part of growing regional tensions. Last month, authorities investigated damage to two critical communication cables in the Baltic Sea. These cables, connecting Finland to Germany and Sweden to Lithuania, were severed within a 24-hour period. The timing raised suspicions of sabotage.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius described the severing of the Germany-Finland cable as “sabotage.” He indicated that “hybrid actors” might have been responsible, though the reason for the attack remains unclear.

Sweden, Germany, and Lithuania have all launched investigations into the role of the Chinese vessel Yi Peng 3. The ship was reportedly in the area when the cables were damaged.

Hybrid Warfare and Russia’s Involvement

Several European governments and NATO’s Secretary-General have accused Russia of stepping up hybrid attacks on Western nations. These attacks have increased since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, Russia has denied any involvement in these incidents.

Hybrid warfare includes tactics like cyberattacks, infrastructure sabotage, and disinformation campaigns. These actions are designed to weaken nations without engaging in direct military conflict.