Exercise Baltic Operations 2022, known as BALTOPS is U.S. European Command’s top maritime-focused annually held exercise within the Baltic Region taking place from June 5 to 17. This exercise offers an exceptional opportunity for training to enhance the ability of the combined response, which is vital to safeguarding freedom of navigation and the security throughout the Baltic Sea. It is the 52nd version of the exercise program that was first introduced in 1972.


U.S. Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Europe Air Forces Africa


provides assistance from the air in a variety of ways throughout the exercises that included aerial refueling capabilities during Thursday’s mission.

U.S. Air Force KC-135 aerial refueling platforms of the Royal Air Force Mildenhall’s 100th Air Refueling Wing supplied tanker assistance in support of Finnish F-18 Hornets, Swedish JAS-39 Gripens, German Eurofighter Typhoons, as well as U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornets.

The KC-135’s capability to refill both probe and drogue aircraft enables for the U.S. to integrate with many coalitionpartners. Refueling on the air increases the reach and range of aircraft and allows them to fly faster, longer and further in order to accomplish the objectives of their mission and training.

The USAFE-AFAFRICA aircraft regularly operate within the Baltic Sea region to assure NATO Allies and partners of our common commitment to peace and security in the region.