ROOTSI LIIKMESUS NATO-S JA EESTI SAARED KUI STRATEEGILISELT TÄHTSAD ELEMENDID LÄÄNEMERE PIIRKONNA JULGEOLEKUS
SWEDEN’S NATO MEMBERSHIP AND THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF ESTONIA’S ISLANDS IN BALTIC SEA SECURITY

Summary/Abstract: This article1 examines how Sweden’s accession to NATO will reshape the strategic landscape of the Baltic Sea region and increase the military significance of Estonia’s islands Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. Drawing on historical cases, contemporary defence developments and regional security cooperation, this research analyses the interplay between geography, military infrastructure, and alliance dynamics. The article argues that Sweden’s membership strengthens NATO’s deterrence posture by improving situational awareness, expanding operational depth, and enhancing collective defence planning across the Baltic Sea. The islands’ geostrategic position makes them critical nodes for surveillance, early warning, and sea-control operations, but their limited militarisation also renders them vulnerable to hybrid threats. The study concludes that an enhanced cooperation between Estonia and Sweden, especially in maritime surveillance, joint exercises, and integrated regional defence, is essential for maximising the security benefits of Sweden’s NATO membership and ensuring the protection of the Baltic Sea’s critical infrastructure and sea lines of communication.

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