The Start of International Military Exercise Freezing Winds 24
Introduction
Etelä-Suomessa and the northern Baltic Sea will be hosting the international military exercise Freezing Winds 24 starting today. This maritime exercise, led by the Finnish Navy, will see participation from various branches of the Finnish Defense Forces, including the Army, Air Force, Defense Forces Logistics Command, and the Border Guard.
Key Details of the Exercise
- 4,000 participants will be involved in the exercise.
- Alongside Finnish troops, allies such as the United States, France, and most Baltic Sea states including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania will be participating.
- NATO’s two standing maritime groups, SNMG1 and SNMCMG1, will also be present.
- The exercise will feature approximately 30 combat vessels, coastal and land forces, as well as support and supply ships.
Objectives and Scope
The exercise, scheduled to run until next Friday, aims to practice international maritime operations in the coastal and Baltic Sea conditions of Finland. Activities will include protecting maritime transport, monitoring and safeguarding underwater infrastructure.
Commodore Marko Laaksonen, the exercise’s director, emphasized the importance of Freezing Winds in the context of Finland’s deepening NATO integration, highlighting the collaborative efforts to secure maritime routes and the country’s immediate vicinity.
Activities of Coastal Forces
Coastal forces will focus on the area between Helsinki and Kotka, with some units training near Kymi Airport. The participation of fighter jets, helicopters, and maritime surveillance aircraft from the US and France may lead to increased noise levels in southern Finland.
American Marine Corps units and US Navy divers will also be part of the coastal forces involved in the exercise.
Unique Training Opportunities
The Finnish Navy notes that the weather conditions in the Baltic Sea at the end of November offer international allies distinctive training environments. Commodore Laaksonen stressed the importance of ensuring alliance interoperability in all conditions, utilizing these unique settings to enhance readiness effectively.
Recent Developments
Recently, several naval vessels from allied nations arrived in Turku as part of the exercise preparations.
Conclusion
The commencement of Freezing Winds 24 marks a significant step in strengthening cooperation among NATO allies in the Baltic Sea region. The exercise underscores the commitment to enhancing maritime security and readiness in challenging environments.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the Freezing Winds 24 exercise?
The exercise aims to practice international maritime operations and enhance alliance interoperability in the Baltic Sea region.
Which countries are participating in Freezing Winds 24?
Participating countries include Finland, the United States, France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, among others.