NATO launches naval drills in Finnish, Estonian waters With 20 combat vessels

NATO has began major naval exercises in the Baltic Sea, with Finland announcing that the “Freezing Winds 25” drills will run from November 24 to December 4 in Finnish and Estonian territorial waters.

According to the Finnish Ministry of Defence, the exercise — led by the Finnish Navy — will be centered in southern Finland, including the Archipelago Sea and the entrance to the Gulf of Finland, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The ministry said the drills will extend into Estonian territorial waters as part of broader regional cooperation.

Around 20 combat and support vessels from Finland’s NATO allies are set to participate. These include ships from Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, the United States, France, and Estonia, alongside NATO’s Standing Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1). Approximately 5,000 military personnel will take part.

Officials said the exercise will focus on securing maritime communications and critical infrastructure, conducting combat operations, and practicing the defense of coastal and archipelago areas.

The drills will also include joint operations between naval and coastal defence forces, reflecting NATO’s efforts to enhance readiness and coordination in the Baltic region.

By Sabina Mammadli