Reference News Network, December 23 report: According to RIA Novosti website, December 21 report, in recent years, NATO has been trying to limit the ability of the Russian Navy to deploy strategic missile submarines in the Barents Sea and the Norwegian Sea. With Finland and Sweden applying for NATO membership in 2022, the entire Scandinavian Peninsula has completely fallen under the control of potential Western hostile forces. Nordic countries are actively expanding their military capabilities, and Moscow has to take this into account in its national security strategy.

Norway plays a leading role in the militarization of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Norway has announced the most ambitious naval renewal plan since the end of the Cold War. By 2035, the Norwegian Navy will acquire six 212CD submarines. It is considered the quietest non-nuclear-powered submarine in the world.

The 212CD submarines are planned to secretly approach the operational areas of Russia's "Borei" class nuclear submarines to track their movements, and if necessary, they will be deployed in combat.

The Norwegian Navy will also equip at least five 26-class frigates. The ships are equipped with MK41 vertical launch systems, and the weapons include "Tomahawk" cruise missiles, "Sea Skua" anti-ship missiles, etc.

Other Scandinavian countries are also actively arming themselves. Previously, NATO established a joint center in Finland to command Arctic air operations. The official mission of this institution is "to enhance situational awareness in the Arctic region." The unofficial mission is to monitor the Russian Northern Fleet and coastal infrastructure.

In 2024, Finland and the United States signed a defense cooperation agreement. The document details the activities of the U.S. military within Finland: from moving equipment to building housing for families. At the same time, a list of facilities was also approved: 15 military bases, airports, and ports.

Sweeden plans to increase military spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2030. These funds will be used to update military equipment, expand the armed forces, and strengthen Stockholm's position in NATO. Major expenditure items include purchasing "Gripen" fighter jets, upgrading the navy, and developing air defense systems.

Although the Russian military has focused most of its efforts on the special military operation in Ukraine, Moscow has the capability to deal with the militarization of its western border.

Facing new threats, Russia re-established the Moscow Military District and the Leningrad Military District in 2024. S-400 long-range air defense missile systems were deployed in the Arctic, while "Kupol" and "Tor" air defense systems provided protection. In terms of the army, the first true Arctic unit - the 80th Independent Motorized Infantry Brigade - is stationed in the town of Arakuldi in Murmansk Oblast.

The main task of dealing with NATO's underwater forces in the Arctic is undertaken by the "Lena"-M class submarines. Currently, the Northern Fleet has three such submarines, with two more under construction.

However, the most significant advantage of Russia in this area is the world's strongest icebreaker fleet. This includes two nuclear-powered icebreakers equipped with dual reactor systems with 75,000 horsepower ("Yamal" and "50th Anniversary of Victory").

A strong icebreaker fleet not only can lead Russian escort convoys through the Northern Sea Route but also provides reliable logistical support for potential military operations. (Translated by Wei Lianglei)

Original: toutiao.com/article/7586864919262265892/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.