Oct 21 2024

Emphasizing Baltic Sea’s Strategic Role in European Security: Chief of Staff Allied Joint Force Command Witnesses Inauguration of Commander Task Force Baltic in Rostock

Brunssum, The Netherlands - Lieutenant General Jean-Pierre Perrin, Chief of Staff of Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS), attended the inauguration ceremony of the Commander Task Force Baltic (CTF-B) today in Rostock, highlighting the strategic significance of the Baltic Sea Region for NATO.

The capabilities and readiness of CTF-B will enhance our response to potential threats

In his remarks during the ceremony, Lieutenant General Perrin emphasized the importance of the Baltic Sea Region, stating, “The establishment of the Commander Task Force Baltic underscores NATO’s commitment to the deterrence and defence of the Eastern Flank of the Alliance. This region is not only vital as a maritime area; it plays a critical role in our collective security framework.” The CTF-B, officially activated on October 1, 2024, under the leadership of the German Navy, represents a significant advancement in NATO's operational capabilities in the region. The core staff of CTF-B comprises personnel from the German Maritime Forces (DEU MARFOR), known for their multinational experience and regional expertise. The decision to create CTF-B stemmed from NATO’s regional plans, which emphasize enhanced cooperation among Baltic NATO nations to fortify collective defence contributions in the area.

The main tasks of CTF-B include leading NATO’s Naval Forces in the Baltic Sea Region in the event of a crisis or conflict, planning maritime operations in designated operational areas, coordinating the maritime activities of Alliance partners, and compiling a comprehensive maritime situation picture for all NATO members.

Lieutenant General Perrin noted, “The capabilities and readiness of CTF-B will enhance our response to potential threats. It shows how much NATO nations stand united and proactive in empowering our collective defence in this critical region.”

The establishment of the CTF-B represents a strategic enhancement of NATO's presence in the Baltic Sea, reaffirming the Alliance's commitment to collective defence and the security of Europe.

Story by JFC Brunssum Public Affairs Office