NATO Launches Largest Baltic Exercise BALTOPS 2026 (defence24.com)

• BALTOPS 2026 is NATO's largest Baltic exercise with 15 nations.
• Poland serves as the starting point (Gdynia), highlighting its frontline role.
• Exercise strengthens regional defence integration and NB8+ prospects.
• USS Mount Whitney's presence signals continued US engagement.

"On 4 June 2026, NATO began its largest-ever Baltic exercise, BALTOPS 2026, running until 19 June under command of US Sixth Fleet and STRIKFORNATO. Poland hosts the starting point in Gdynia, with 15 NATO nations participating. The exercise covers surface, sub-surface, amphibious, and air defence operations across the western to central Baltic. It emphasises the Baltic's role as a transatlantic anchor and reinforces Nordic-Baltic defence cooperation."