The US Navy is building boat ramps, temporary Arctic structures, and practicing logistics operations in Latvia as part of the Baltops 2026 exercises, amid warnings from Western officials about a possible threat from Russia. This was reported by The Telegraph, writes UNN.
Details
US Navy Seabees construction units are building concrete ramps for landing troops and equipment in the port city of Liepaja on the Baltic Sea coast. According to the publication, in the event of a conflict, these facilities could be used to deploy reinforcements to NATO allies.
The Baltic Sea is considered one of the key regions for the defense of the Alliance’s eastern flank. Western officials suggest that Moscow could attempt to attack one of the Baltic NATO countries in the coming years.
NATO exercises involve thousands of troops
The Baltops 2026 exercises involve more than 6,000 military personnel from 15 countries, as well as over 30 allied ships and aircraft. In addition to infrastructure construction, US troops are practicing amphibious operations, mine countermeasures, and the defense of sea lanes.
The Seabees are also building wooden Arctic houses that can be used as housing, warehouses, or command posts. Other units are training to clear routes using explosives.
NATO emphasizes the importance of the Baltic region
US Navy officials stated that after Finland and Sweden joined NATO, the importance of the Baltic Sea for collective defense has only increased. According to them, the exercises are designed to prepare Alliance forces for rapid deployment and defense of the region.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže called the exercises proof that the US remains committed to the security of Europe and NATO, despite discussions about Washington’s future role in the Alliance.