NATO PIPELINE SYSTEM

Current Context : Poland has announced its decision to join the NATO Pipeline System (NPS), expanding cooperation on energy and fuel logistics within the alliance.

ABOUT NATO PIPELINE SYSTEM

• Established During – Cold War, to supply fuel to NATO forces.
• Total Length – Around 10,000 km, covering 12 NATO countries.
• Storage Capacity – 4.1 million cubic metres.
• Components – Storage depots, refineries, pumping stations, and air bases interconnected through pipelines.
• Management –
  • Controlled by national organisations.
  • The Central Europe Pipeline System (CEPS) is managed multilaterally under the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).
• Oversight – The Petroleum Committee, reporting to the Logistics Committee, oversees petroleum logistics.
• Funding – Supported by the NATO Security Investment Programme.
• Structure – Comprises eight national and two multinational pipeline systems.