Poland, Sweden Conduct First Joint Short-Notice Baltic Sea Drill

Poland and Sweden have initiated their first-ever bilateral short-notice military exercise called SNEX "Gotland Sentry" in the Baltic Sea, aimed at demonstrating rapid joint deployment and enhancing collective defense capabilities. This exercise follows a defense cooperation agreement signed on September 2, which commits both countries to joint operations and closer collaboration in defense technologies in the region. SNEX exercises are characterized by minimal preparation time and emphasize command flexibility, interoperability, and actual combat readiness. Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted the drill as a clear signal of readiness for joint defense within the Baltic Sea regional security architecture. The exercise reflects growing regional security concerns, especially in light of recent Russian military deployments in Kaliningrad and NATO's increased Eastern European presence. Overall, Gotland Sentry not only strengthens military ties between Poland and Sweden but also serves as a strategic response to regional threats.