The primary objective is to improve the interoperability of NATO forces and demonstrate the alliance’s commitment to joint security.
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Approximately 9,000 soldiers from 20 NATO countries are conducting military exercises in the Baltic Sea region, an area of growing strategic importance after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This year’s Baltops exercises are notable as Sweden, now a full member of NATO, joined the exercises for the first time since its recent incorporation to the alliance.
The exercises, which will last until Thursday, involve comprehensive training operations including sea mine sweeps, submarine detection, as well as landings and medical response to mass casualty scenarios.
The main objective is improve interoperability of NATO forces and demonstrate the alliance’s commitment to joint security.
A strategically important area
NATO Naval Strike and Support Forces, along with the US Navy’s Sixth Fleet, are organizing the exercises, involving around 50 Navy ships and 45 planes and helicopters.
These exercises are carried out throughout the Baltic Sea, as well as in the strategic island of Gotland in Swedenand in Lithuania, Poland and Germany.
The importance of the Baltic region has increased due to the important gas pipelines that cross its seabed from Russia and Norway to Germany, Poland and other European nations.
This area has become increasingly sensitive since Russia’s increased hostile activities following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
