Sea routes are the lifeblood of the global economy—over 90 percent of goods trade occurs via the sea, and critical infrastructures such as offshore wind farms and underwater cables secure energy supply and international data traffic. However, the maritime sphere is increasingly becoming a target for hybrid attacks. From acts of sabotage on infrastructure to geopolitical tensions threatening free access to the oceans, the challenges for Europe have grown. Dr. Moritz Brake calls for Europe to significantly expand its maritime security capabilities to counter the growing threats—from military attacks to cyberattacks and disinformation.
At the heart of the issue is the need to strengthen the European Navy and infrastructure not just defensively but also proactively. This is not only about protecting sea routes but also about strategically utilizing the maritime economy as a backbone for European sovereignty. With China increasingly expanding its maritime power and Russia challenging NATO more frequently, the call for a more robust and resilient maritime strategy is growing louder. For Europe, it is crucial to prepare in a crisis-proof manner, both militarily and economically, to remain capable and independent, even in turbulent times.
Dr. Brake emphasizes that this is a national task that requires not only military resources but also economic and political mobilization. In particular, Germany, as the third-largest economy in the world, must face the new reality that a larger, more powerful navy and a more resilient maritime infrastructure are essential to meet the challenges of the 21st century and to preserve Europe's freedom and sovereignty.