In addition to trade routes, the oceans also host vital pipelines and data cables that keep our civilization 'viable,' according to Dr. Moritz Brake. The close link between great power status and naval power remains deeply rooted in international politics.
From this perspective, it is hardly surprising that China has invested heavily in its maritime presence for decades. Both civilian and military shipping have been systematically subsidized for years, allowing China to control and build a large portion of the merchant ships critical to the country. Parallel to this, the Chinese Navy has grown to become the world's largest in terms of quantity, though not the most powerful, Dr. Brake continued. The U.S. still maintains the lead, primarily due to the operational capabilities of its individual systems.
A capable navy is also of central importance for Germany. As an export nation, Germany must be able to represent its own interests at sea; this is also the reason why the Navy was downsized less significantly compared to the Army and the Air Force. Dr. Moritz Brake also sees great significance for European naval forces regarding Greenland. While strategies exist, Europe remains inferior to the U.S., leaving it with few answers to American demands.
According to Dr. Moritz Brake, the seizure also sends a signal to Europe. On the one hand, it underscores the need to take American security interests into account, including those in the area around Greenland; on the other hand, it indicates that Europe itself must take stronger action against similar vessels.
With regard to Greenland, Dr. Moritz Brake added that a joint approach to protecting the Arctic offers the greatest prospects for success. NATO is capable of operating and responding in the Arctic region; however, it must also make use of this potential.