Launch of the naval exercise Northern Coasts 21

Together in the Baltic Sea – NOCO21

This Monday, the naval exercise Northern Coasts begins. Nearly 2 000 individuals and 28 vessels from 15 nations will participate in the annual Northern Coasts naval exercise that takes place in the southern Baltic sea along the Swedish coast.

Some 30 ships and approximately 2 000 individuals will participate in this year's exercise. Photo: Melina Westerberg/Försvarsmakten

Northern Coasts (NOCO) is a multinational naval exercise aiming to strengthen the ability to combine national assets to effectively conduct combined naval operations. Thereby, we will maintain stability and security in Sweden’s immediate surroundings. The exercise takes place in the south of the Baltic sea along the Swedish coast of Blekinge and Skåne and allows participating units to practise in a widespread archipelago with shallow waters.

Meeting the participants' wishes

Sweden's task as a host involves putting together a plan that meets the wishes of the participants, as far as possible. A large number of activities will be coordinated in time and space, with the right units involved. Participating units will train various capabilities including naval combat, anti-submarine warfare and mine clearance.

“We must constantly develop and improve our capabilities in order to solve our tasks in the best way. Practising in different areas and with different participants strengthens us. Despite the pandemic's restrictions, we have been able to prepare well. I have high expectations for this year's Northern Coasts”, says exercise leader Jonas Källestedt.

NOCO21 is carried out 13-23 September in the southern Baltic Sea along the south and east coasts of Sweden. 15 nations with 28 ships, about 10 aircraft and helicopters, as well as a number of land units with vehicles and equipment, will participate.