NATO and partners begin BALTOPS naval exercise in the Baltic

Scores of ships and aircraft from 17 NATO and partner countries are taking part in Baltic Sea naval drills as part of the BALTOPS exercise which starts on Friday, June 5 and runs until June 20, the BBC reported on Friday, with reference to NATO’s official Web site.

The exercise demonstrates NATO's resolve to defend the Baltic region, and will hone the ability of the allies and partners to work together, the alliance said.

The exercise will feature anti-submarine warfare, air defense, intercepting suspect vessels and amphibious landings. A total of 49 ships, 61 aircraft, one submarine, and a combined amphibious landing force of 700 U.S. Finnish and Swedish troops will participate in the drills.

Fourteen NATO Allies are joined this year by NATO partners Finland, Georgia and Sweden. Overall, 5,600 troops will be involved.

"This exercise represents an important opportunity for our forces, as allies and partners, to enhance our ability to work together and strengthen capabilities required to maintain regional security," said Vice Admiral James Foggo III, the commander of NATO Naval Striking and Support Forces.

"This exercise will be conducted in a truly joint environment, and I look forward to working with and learning from so many different nations and services," he added..........

unian.info