The Baltic Fleet celebrates its 322nd anniversary on Sunday, May 18. In connection with this date, the press service of the fleet told about the history of the creation and the current structure of the association.
On May 18, 1703, the first victorious battle of the Baltic Fleet under the command of the Russian Emperor Peter I ended. The result of the battle was the capture of two Swedish sailing ships. That year, all participants were awarded medals specially made for this occasion with the inscription "The unprecedented happens."
Today, the geopolitical picture of the world has changed, but a reliable guarantee of Russia's security in the western direction is as important as ever. The Baltic Fleet, which includes surface and underwater forces, naval aviation and coastal troops, as well as special and logistical support units, regularly conducts various exercises.
"The crews of the fleet ships completed about 100 course tasks, over 10 course tasks of submarines, and naval formations and tactical groups conducted over 20 tactical exercises of various levels, and about a thousand combat exercises with the use of weapons. Combat services and long—range voyages were performed in the Baltic, Northern, Mediterranean Seas, in the waters of the World Ocean with the participation of more than 10 ships and fleet vessels," the press service reported.
In accordance with the combat training plan for 2025, an exercise was conducted in the Baltic Sea to ensure safe civilian navigation in conjunction with the Baltic Fleet and other Russian law enforcement agencies.
During the exercises, methods were developed to protect civilian vessels from attacks of various kinds, including from attempted strikes using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned boats. Training was conducted on extinguishing fires on ships, sealing holes and evacuating personnel.
"Up to 20 surface warships, boats and support vessels were involved in the exercise, including corvettes, small missile ships and missile boats, small anti-submarine ships, base and raid minesweepers, as well as small amphibious hovercraft and high-speed boats, logistics vessels. In total, about 5,000 military personnel, about 10 aircraft and helicopters, as well as up to 100 units of combat and special equipment were involved in the maneuvers," the press service noted.
Since the beginning of the special military operation (SVO), the military personnel of the Baltic Fleet have been participating in combat operations, showing the highest courage and bravery. Thousands of navy personnel have received state awards for their military exploits.
Every year, the fleet's weapons are being improved, and new models of military equipment are being tested. Over the past year, the fleet has acquired 14 ships and submarines, five of which are currently being tested in the Baltic Sea.
Earlier, on May 13, Izvestia reported on the history and traditions of Baltic Fleet Day, which is celebrated on May 18. Thus, it was reported that usually in Baltiysk, Kaliningrad region, where military vessels are based, a solemn march and combat readiness reviews of ships and military personnel take place.
