A unified naval force will be established to deter Russia along its “open sea” northern boundary. The initiative involves the United Kingdom and nine European partners: the Netherlands, the five Nordic countries and the three Baltic states. Last week, Royal Navy commander Sir Gwyn Jenkins announced the signing of a declaration of intent to create the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a multinational maritime formation intended to act as a complement to NATO.

Despite tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the First Sea Lord said Russia remains the most serious threat to national security, noting that Russian incursions into British waters have increased by nearly a third over the past two years. The force will not include the United States, although Canada is considering participation and other allied countries may also join.

Jenkins added that the United Kingdom “has an open maritime border with Russia to the north.” If needed, the JEF headquarters would be based at Northwood, northwest of London. The force is intended to be ready to fight immediately if required, with actual capabilities, concrete war plans and true integration.

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