BALTOPS 25: NATO launches major maritime exercise in the Baltic Region

Sixteen NATO allies, providing more than 40 ships, 25 aircraft and approximately 9,000 personnel, will take part in the 54th iteration of Baltic Operations, or BALTOPS 25.

Starting June 5, NATO will kick off BALTOPS 25, its premier annual maritime-focused military exercise in the Baltic region. The exercise brings together NATO allies to enhance interoperability, strengthen collective defense, and uphold freedom of navigation.

“This year’s BALTOPS is more than just an exercise—it’s a clear demonstration of our Alliance’s resolve, adaptability, and maritime strength,” said Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. Sixth Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO. “As NATO marks its 75th anniversary, BALTOPS 25 highlights our unity across the full range of maritime operations.”

Participating countries include Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The exercise features training in amphibious operations, gunnery, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, explosive ordnance disposal, and medical response. It will also incorporate unmanned surface and underwater vehicles in various scenarios.

BALTOPS is led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet and is command-and-controlled by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO), based in Oeiras, Portugal. STRIKFORNATO will host liaison officers and planners from all participating nations, coordinating efforts through a multinational command center.

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