POTD: NATO Special Operations Forces Secure the Baltic

Welcome to TFB’s Photo Of The Day! Today’s selection features NATO Special Operations Forces securing the Baltic. We’re in Lithuania where East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEALs) conducted maritime training together with Lithuania Special Operators and Portuguese Naval Special Operators from Special Actions Detachment (DAE).

This was a part of Flaming Sword 24, which brought together NATO Special Operations Forces from six Allied nations, to test their readiness to conduct operations in response to increased aggression against its allies.

Flaming Sword 24 allows special operations forces to enhance their warfighting skills, build interoperability, ensure readiness, and demonstrate the capability of ready and postured special operations forces within the European theater. Naval Special Warfare Group TWO produces, supports, and deploys the world’s premier maritime special operations forces to conduct full-spectrum operations and integrated deterrence in support of U.S. national objectives.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Trey Hutcheson)

Close quarters combat training.

LITHUANIA (May 16, 2024) East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEALs) conduct small arms training with Lithuania Special Operators.

East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEALs) fast rope from a helicopter with Lithuania Special Operators as part of Flaming Sword 24.

Lithuania Special Operators: The Heckler & Koch HK416 in action.

Images and captions: U.S. Navy, photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Trey Hutcheson.