Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the Baltic Sea's critical importance for European security, particularly in light of ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine.

Named Commander Task Force Baltic (CTF Baltic), the headquarters will coordinate NATO naval forces and oversee maritime operations during peacetime and crises.

Pistorius clarified that this facility is a national command with NATO collaboration, not a new NATO command, and complies with the Two-Plus-Four Agreement.

CTF Baltic will involve personnel from 12 nations, with a German admiral in command and a Polish admiral as deputy.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has intensified concerns over Russian aggression in the Baltic region, prompting increased surveillance and military readiness.

The Baltic Sea serves as a vital economic zone and supply route for NATO, making its security crucial for the alliance.

Pistorius pointed out that the Baltic Sea is surrounded by NATO countries, and tensions have increased following Finland and Sweden's NATO membership.

Germany has taken on a leadership role in the Baltic region, having the largest navy in NATO's Baltic forces since October 1.

The establishment of a new NATO headquarters in Rostock aims to bolster defense capabilities amid nearly 1,000 days of conflict in Ukraine.

The headquarters will maintain oversight of military and civilian shipping activities in the Baltic, starting with 60 positions that can expand to 240 during crises.

Pistorius warned of various forms of Russian aggression, including hybrid and cyberattacks, which blur the lines between war and peace.

Rostock's mayor expressed mixed feelings about the new headquarters, acknowledging job creation while fearing the city could become a military target.