NATO allies, including the UK, are stepping up Baltic Sea defences as senior officers and officials warn of growing Russian threats and risks of wider conflict. US Navy Seabees are constructing boat ramps on Latvia’s western coast as part of the Baltops exercise to prepare for rapid reinforcement and counter-offensive operations against a potential Russian invasion, according to military officers.

Capt Allen Willey, the Seabees’ commanding officer, inspected a ramp built to an 11-degree incline for offloading troops, vessels and military vehicles. The veteran construction battalion, known for its “Can Do” motto since 1942, is positioned to play a critical role in logistics and resupply for NATO’s eastern flank. The Baltic Sea is viewed by military experts as Europe’s key “strategic sea”, bordered by eight NATO members and Russia. Swedish officials have warned that Russia is preparing plans to occupy Gotland Island to test NATO’s resolve, while analysts have highlighted potential hybrid threats to Denmark’s Bornholm.

Western officials have expressed concerns that Moscow could target a Baltic state within the next few years, posing a major test of NATO’s Article 5 collective defence commitment.

During Baltops, Seabees also assembled wooden Arctic huts intended for temporary billets, storage or command posts, while US Marine demolition teams practised clearing obstacles using C4 explosives.

Lt-Cdr Cody Robertson told The Telegraph that the drills enhance preparedness: “This exercise will make us better prepared, if defence is required.” He emphasised the increased importance following Finland and Sweden’s accession to NATO.

Satellite imagery reported by Danish broadcaster DR has shown Russia clearing forested areas for new barracks, combat divisions and vehicles near the borders with Estonia and Sweden. Experts have also pointed to a pattern of suspected Russian sabotage targeting undersea cables in the region.