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Baltic Operations 2011 Concludes Tactical Phase

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110616-01
6/16/2011

By Ensign Adam Demeter, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

BALTIC SEA (NNS) -- The Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2011 tactical phase concluded as USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) prepared to pull into Kiel, Germany, after 12 days at sea, June 16.

Now in its 39th year, this year's BALTOPS included force contributions from 13 different countries, including 23 ships, one submarine and 18 types of aircraft participating in more than 200 training events.

"I was inspired to see ships from many different countries come together to train as one unit," said Rear Adm. Clifford Sharpe, commander, Carrier Strike Group 8 and BALTOPS 2011 tactical commander. "It was an honor to work alongside so many outstanding sailors and airmen."

BALTOPS began June 4, as the participating nations gathered in Kiel, Germany. During the serial phase of the exercise, nations worked together in a series of tactical exercises focused on communication, warfare proficiencies, and the execution of robust and challenging missions. Ships conducted communication drills over various frequencies and completed tight formation maneuvers in two different photo exercises. Mine Countermeasure ships practiced mine hunting, minesweeping and ordnance destruction.

Sharpe conducted visits to all exercise ships and met with commanding officers and crews in an effort to enhance relationships and trust between exercise controllers and participants.

"The serial phase of the exercise was very important, because it gave the units and ships from all of the countries a chance to practice working together," said Lt. Johannes Lindstrom, Swedish navy.

The tactical phase of BALTOPS included a multinational scenario involving two equally matched forces. One represented a multinational force working under a United Nations (UN) mandate. The other represented a regional power seeking to expand its influence. The scenario created opportunities for commanders to make decisions based on evolving information and react in accordance with rules of engagement and their best judgments.

"We wanted to maximize the training for all participants," said Capt. Bob Cepek, Carrier Strike Group 8 operations officer. "So, we designed the exercise to be more inclusive. We're excited by the professionalism and capabilities shown by both forces."

An added bonus for BALTOPS sailors occurs once participants arrive in Kiel at the beginning of Kiel Week, a major annual maritime celebration that draws more than 3,000,000 visitors each year. Sailing races, festival and sporting events, and ship tours highlight the week.