NATO is moving forward with the formation of a new brigade in Finland, stationed just 130 to 170 kilometers from the borders of Murmansk Region. Experts warn that the proximity of these forces could pose a direct threat to Russia’s strategic nuclear infrastructure.

The core of this formation will be Sweden’s 19th Arctic Mechanized Brigade, a unit of roughly five thousand troops trained for operations in harsh northern conditions. The brigade is being reinforced by forces from Norway and Denmark, while France and Iceland are providing logistical and technical support.

Military analyst Viktor Litovkin underscored that the Kola Peninsula hosts some of the most important components of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces. This includes multipurpose nuclear submarines and surface vessels equipped to carry nuclear weapons. He emphasized that the peninsula is also home to the Northern Fleet, which he described as the most powerful of Russia’s naval forces.

Litovkin also pointed to the strategic importance of cities such as Arkhangelsk, Severomorsk, and Severodvinsk, where facilities for the construction of nuclear submarines are located. He argued that in the event of a confrontation with NATO, Russia would be compelled to rely heavily on its nuclear arsenal.