BERLIN: Western allies launched a major naval exercise in the Baltic Sea on Saturday, marking a significant show of strength amid escalating tensions with Russia over the conflict in Ukraine. Approximately 3,200 soldiers from 14 countries are participating in the German-led Northern Coasts 23 exercise, according to a statement from the German navy.
The exercise will involve 30 ships, submarines, up to 19 aircraft, and various landing units. NATO spokesperson Dylan White emphasized the changed security situation in the Baltic Sea due to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, stating that exercises like these convey a clear message that NATO is prepared to defend its allies’ territory.
Participating countries in the exercise include Italy, France, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Canada, Belgium, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, and the United States. This marks the first time that the German navy has been tasked with planning and conducting a maneuver of this magnitude, noted Rear Admiral Stephan Haisch, director of the maneuver.
The Northern Coasts series was initiated by the German navy in 2007, with responsibility for the exercise alternating annually among Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. This year, the exercise is simulating a realistic scenario within the framework of alliance defense and is taking place off the coasts and on the territory of Latvia and Estonia.
Incidents Involving Russian and Western Aircraft Over Black Sea and Baltic Sea
Incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have surged over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea during Russia’s offensive in Ukraine. In May, Moscow reported intercepting four US strategic bombers above the Baltic Sea in two separate incidents within a week.
Russia frequently conducts naval drills in the Baltic Sea, often in response to NATO exercises in the region. The Russian navy has played a significant role in Moscow’s assault on Ukraine by launching cruise missiles from ships and submarines, among other actions.
The Northern Coasts 23 exercise serves as a demonstration of NATO’s commitment to security in the Baltic Sea region amid heightened tensions in Europe.
