The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has directed harsh criticism at several NATO member countries. He has labeled them cowards for their refusal to support a proposal for a military maneuver to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This maritime passage is a critical route for global oil transportation, and its blockade affects the world economy.
The logistics and technology behind a maritime unblocking operation 🛰️
An operation to ensure navigation in an area like Hormuz requires complex technological coordination. It involves the deployment of warships with anti-aircraft and anti-submarine defense systems, constant patrols by early warning aircraft, and the use of drones for surveillance. Secure satellite communication between fleets of different nations is a key element, as well as identification systems to avoid attacks on civilian ships.
Courage is measured in aircraft carriers (and in checks) 💰
It seems that NATO's doctrine has evolved. Now, in addition to meeting the 2% of GDP in defense target, one must pass a courage test with questions like: Would you send your most modern frigate to an area with coastal missiles?. Some allies, examining their accounts and the state of their fleets, have decided that the correct answer is maybe next year. After all, gasoline can wait.