Do the Shetland Isles need Cold War-style military protection?
Calls are being made for the defence of the Shetland Isles to be strengthened after increased sightings of Russian trawlers off the coast of Scotland.
Recent concerns have been raised about the need for Cold War-style military protection for the Shetland Isles due to an increase in Russian trawler sightings in the region. Analysis by the Daily Telegraph revealed over 500 incidents where Russian boats have been stationed above undersea cables linking Britain with Europe and the US, which carry the majority of telecoms data internationally.
This has prompted calls for enhanced defense measures, given the growing importance of undersea infrastructure and the security vulnerabilities it presents.
A parliamentary report from the previous year warned of risks to transport, supply chains, financial services, and payment systems. Furthermore, there are concerns that the £30 million SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland could be a potential target for Russia. While incidents in the Baltic Sea have damaged undersea cables, there has been no direct evidence of Russian involvement in the Shetland incidents.
Nonetheless, Shetland's geographical position poses ongoing risks. Historically, during World War Two, Shetland served as a crucial defensive location, with RAF bases and radar stations in place to monitor enemy aircraft. Despite the closure of RAF Saxa Vord in 2006 and its revitalization in 2018 for Arctic surveillance, its strategic value remains.
First Minister John Swinney has criticized the UK government for leaving Scotland's coastline inadequately protected, especially in light of significant Russian activity in Shetland waters. Liberal Democrat MP Alistair Carmichael has urged the government to increase efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure. He emphasized that while there is no immediate threat, the current level of military presence may need reassessment due to evolving global dynamics and the diminishing military presence in the northern isles.
SaxaVord Spaceport, located in Unst, is the UK's first fully licensed spaceport, attracting interest from companies aiming to launch small satellites. Its proximity to the space strategy investments and its role in European launches have further heightened its profile. Carmichael stressed the importance of revitalizing military presence in Shetland, suggesting that a full-time soldier should be restored to support the existing reserved unit.
He acknowledged, however, that the community's enthusiasm for such a move would depend on the government's commitment to demonstrating its importance.
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