U.S.-led BALTOPS 2020 involves participation from 19 nations. The 17 NATO and 2 partner nations will provide 29 maritime units, 29 aircraft, and 3,000 personnel.
The participating nations are: Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the U.K., and the United States.
The Baltic Sea is of high importance for regional stability in the Baltic Sea region
“BALTOPS 20 is a great opportunity to continue improving our ability to integrate and operate together with Allies and partners in a swift and effective manner. Training in peacetime makes us ready to act and function whenever called upon in times of crisis”, said Commander of SNMCMG1, Henning Knudsen-Hauge.
The exercise enhances flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations to strengthen combined response capabilities, as well as demonstrate international resolve to ensure stability in, and if necessary defend, the Baltic Sea region.
Both NATO maritime groups have built up a long operational record in the Baltic Sea over the past months.
“The Baltic Sea is of high importance for regional stability in the Baltic Sea region. Throughout the exercise we will show that in an unpredictable world, Allies and partners stand together to protect the values, territory and people in the Baltic Sea”, said Commodore Yngve Skoglund, Commander in Standing NATO Maritime Group One.
SNMG1 will take the duty as Commander for a task group consisting of 5 ships from 4 nations in the fictitious exercise scenario, while SNMCMG1 will command their own task unit with 7 vessels from 5 nations.
To ensure the safety and health of participating military personnel, BALTOPS 20 will take place exclusively at sea. This precaution allows units to enhance multinational operational cooperation, while ensuring that crews remain healthy, and ready to provide continuous regional security.