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The BALTOPS naval excercise have been held every year since 1971, but this year will be different.
The BALTOPS naval excercise have been held every year since 1971, but this year will be different.
What is happening?
On June 5th, NATO will start it’s annual BALTOPS naval excercise in the Baltic Sea.
It’s been held every year since 1971, but this year, Russia will be watching closely.
Preparations for a military clash
According to the Russian State Controlled News Agency, Tass, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said:
“We consider NATO’s military activities to be a part of preparations for a military clash with Russia.”
Look at the drills
Grushko further said:
“If we look at what these drills are aimed at, look at their theme, the structure of troop deployment, their capabilities, qualities and objectives for these exercises, we will see that they are aimed at countering a matching adversary, which is Russia,.
Environmental superiority
According to Gushko, the purpose of the Baltorp excercise is to practice superiority in all operational environments: on the ground, in the air and at sea.
He described the excercises as “extremely provocative”.
More than 40 ships
According to NATO, sixteen NATO allies, more than 40 ships, 25 aircraf and approximately 9,000 personnel will take part in BALTOPS 2025.
“More than just an excercise”
In a press release, Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. Sixth Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, said:
“This year’s BALTOPS is more than just an exercise. It’s a visible demonstration of our Alliance’s resolve, adaptability and maritime strength.”