The Baltic states: Defence and geopolitics

Abstract

The article analyses Baltic defence posture and risk situation. The geostrategic situation of the Baltic states suggests Russia is the main threat. However, assessing the situation realistically, Russia could probably project only limited military operations in the Baltic region in an opportune international situation. The Baltic states would counter a threat by a defensive posture similar to that of Finland. This demands close Baltic defence collaboration and a ‘Baltic interoperability’. The author also argues Baltic defence establishments should not focus their attention solely upon an external military threat, because new security risks in the former Warsaw Pact area can constitute more immediate crisis situations.