Policy

Find out the legislation that builds the U.S.-Baltic security relationship. Access the information you need to advocate for the U.S.-Baltic security relationship.

Build the U.S.-Baltic Security Relationship
Baltic Security Initiative

Congress contributes to the U.S.-Baltic relationship through an appropriation known as the Baltic Security Initiative (BSI). U.S. defense articles purchased with matching funds from the Baltic states are delivered to the region to enhance defensive capabilities and secure NATO’s Eastern flank. Capabilities supported as listed in bill text include:

(A) long-range precision fire systems and capabilities;

(B) integrated air and missile defense;

(C) maritime domain awareness;

(D) land forces development, including stockpiling large caliber ammunition;

(E) command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance;

(F) special operations forces development;

Baltic Security Initiative Funding Levels

Why Support the Baltic Security Initiative?

The Baltic states are engaged in a race to establish credible deterrence against Russia. Estonian intelligence services assess that following the end of the war in Ukraine, Russia’s reconstituted forces could result in a greater troop presence along the Baltic borders than existed prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

In response to the changing security environment in Europe, NATO has set higher capability and defense spending targets. The Baltic states are working diligently to meet these benchmarks, with all three committing more than 5 percent of GDP to defense in FY26. BSI plays a critical role in accelerating the development and deployment of key defensive capabilities, helping to close capability gaps and ensure timely parity with Russian forces.