Finnish and Swedish Navies collaborate in Gulf of Finland cable investigation

Support from Sweden’s multi-purpose vessel, the HMS Belos, is enhancing the operation. The Swedish Navy’s specialised underwater expertise complements Finland’s efforts, with HMS Belos providing deep-diving capabilities and equipment critical for the demanding underwater work. The collaboration underscores the long-standing bilateral cooperation between the Finnish and Swedish navies.

Securing the Baltic Sea’s underwater infrastructure is a shared priority for both nations. Over the years, Finland and Sweden have developed strong ties through the FISE (Finnish-Swedish) cooperation framework. This includes regular joint exercises, capability development, and testing operational models, which have strengthened their ability to respond to real-world challenges.

Commander Tuomas Runola, who leads the Finnish Navy’s deep diving and salvage detachment, emphasised the significance of HMS Belos’s role in the operation. “Working underwater is always demanding, particularly at the depths required in this case. HMS Belos brings additional skills, equipment, and experience, ensuring safety and effectiveness,” he noted. This mission exemplifies how years of joint training and preparation translate into seamless teamwork during critical operations.

The Helsinki Police Department is spearheading the investigation, supported by the Finnish Border Guard and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The underwater scene investigation is led by the Border Guard’s patrol vessel Turva, with the NBI overseeing the criminal investigation. This integrated approach highlights the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies to address the incident effectively.