Russia strengthens its Baltic forces with additional warships and fighter jets in bid to out-gun NATO
More warships and fighter jets will boost the fleet by the end of the year
Pro-Moscow defence expert Alexander Khrolenko said it is the result of NATO’s ‘aggressive ambitions’
Last week Pentagon chief Jim Mattis said the US will deploy weapons to improve air defence systems in the Baltic
By DAVE BURKE
DailyMail.com
18 May 2017
Russia is beefing up its Baltic Fleet with the arrival of more warships and fighter jets – and NATO’s ‘aggressive ambitions’ have been blamed.
By the end of the year the fleet will have additional guided missile craft, fighters and support vessels, the Russian military has announced.
The boost comes at a time of heightened tensions, with NATO members anxious over planned Russian war games in September following missile deployment in the region.
Writing for Sputnik News, which was set up by the Russian government, defence analyst Alexander Khrolenko said NATO can ‘only dream’ of dominating the Baltic.
He wrote: ‘The swift military buildup of the Baltic Fleet is a natural response on Russia’s part to NATO’s aggressive ambitions in the region, increased war-gaming, Baltic air policing, anti-Russian sentiments and spy fever.’
He added that NATO war games ‘simulate a hybrid war with Russia, of course’.
Among the planes set to be deployed to the fleet are Sukhoi Su-30SM fighters, Sputnik reports.
Last week Pentagon chief Jim Mattis said the United States and NATO are prepared to deploy any capabilities necessary to help improve air defence systems in the Baltic region.
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