On April 1–2 Air Force Commanders (or authorised representatives) and Senior Enlisted Leaders of the three Baltic states and the Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Denmark) in Lielvarde, Latvia. The goal of the meeting was to discuss current issues of air forces in the region, joint projects planned or underway, joint exercises, improvement of information exchange and increasing interoperability. One of the key themes discussed was the joint Baltic project BALTNET, currently led by Estonia on rotational basis. Another major topic in focus was integration of Finland and Sweden in the Alliance defence structures.
Commanders of the Air Forces or their representatives underscored at the meeting that a unified and coordinate action was crucial for ensuring security of the Baltic and Nordic regional airspace, especially in light of the current geopolitical situation. According to Commander of the Lithuanian Air Forces Col Antanas Matutis, “meetings held on a regular basis not just strengthen mutual ties but also increase the effectiveness of response to arising challenges. We can ensure security of the Baltic and the Nordic countries and contribute in retaining the integrity of NATO airspace only if we work together.”
The meeting of Senior Enlisted Leaders too place concurrently. The Baltic Senior Enlisted Leaders met with their Finish Swedish and Danish colleagues to discuss the mandatory military service personnel, specific features of their training and progress of service. Another theme discussed was NCO career planning and organisation of career and specialist courses. “This is a very important opportunity to maintain and strengthen the non-commissioned office corps in all the participating countries by sharing experience, comparing career model in different countries and identifying best practices,” said Senior Enlisted Leader of the Lithuanian Air Force Sergeant Major Nerijus Petravičius.
BALTNET (Baltic Air Surveillance Network and Control System) is joint airspace surveillance and control project of the Baltic states for ensuring sovereignty of the national airspace of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia and contributing to the integrity of NATO airspace. System components (airspace surveillance radars, Control and Reporting Centres (CRC) ensure effective coordination of air control in the Baltic region.
Photo credits: Lithuanian Air Force
