BALTIC SEA (June 4, 2023) The Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) is underway alongside ships participating in exercise Baltic Operations 2023 (BALTOPS 23) in the Baltic Sea, June 4, 2023. BALTOPS 23 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen the combined response capability critical to preserving the freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mario Coto)