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BRUNSSUM, The Netherlands – In a significant milestone for NATO operations, Allied Joint Force Command (JFC) Brunssum is spearheading the first operational deployment of the German Heron TP (GHTP) unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of enhanced Vigilance Activity Baltic Sentry 2025. This cutting-edge surveillance asset strengthens NATO’s ability to monitor and protect critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic region.

As NATO’s lead operational headquarters for Baltic Sentry 2025, JFC Brunssum plays a crucial role in coordinating our Allies’ efforts to secure the region

As the lead operational headquarters for the mission, JFC Brunssum ensures the seamless coordination and execution of Baltic Sentry 2025, reinforcing NATO’s deterrence posture. The deployment of the GHTP marks a major advancement in the Alliance’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, delivering real-time intelligence to NATO forces and enhancing situational awareness.

Baltic Sentry 2025 is part of NATO’s broader strategy to secure vital undersea assets, including data cables and pipelines, against potential sabotage. By increasing NATO’s military presence in the region and integrating advanced ISR capabilities, JFC Brunssum ensures that NATO remains prepared to counter emerging security threats.

"As NATO’s lead operational headquarters for Baltic Sentry 2025, JFC Brunssum plays a crucial role in coordinating our Allies’ efforts to secure the region. The first operational deployment of the GHTP significantly enhances our surveillance operations, reinforcing NATO’s ability to deter and respond to threats. We stand united in protecting our critical infrastructure and maintaining regional stability," said General Guglielmo Luigi Miglietta, Commander of Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum.

Germany, as a key NATO ally, contributes to Baltic Sentry 2025 under JFC Brunssum’s operational coordination. The Bundeswehr’s Operational Command manages its forces’ planning and execution, ensuring seamless integration with NATO’s ISR network.

First introduced in May 2024, the GHTP is so far an unarmed reconnaissance and surveillance drone designed for long-range missions. It not only flies in airspace restricted for military purposes, but also uses civilian airspace over Germany and the North and Baltic Seas for demonstration flights. The aircraft thus represents a significant improvement in NATO's information-sharing capabilities.

The successful transition of the GHTP from testing to operational deployment under JFC Brunssum’s oversight demonstrates the Alliance’s ability to rapidly integrate modern technologies into active missions

Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz, Chief of the German Air Force, emphasized the importance of interoperability: "Ensuring that our systems are mission-ready and fully integrated with NATO’s operational structures is a priority. The successful deployment of the GHTP within Baltic Sentry 2025 highlights our ability to adapt quickly and contribute effectively to Alliance security."