The training focused on multiple warfare areas including search and rescue, damage control, vessel in distress, air defense and anti-submarine warfare. Exercises involved surface and air assets from SNMG1, Lithuanian Navy, Air Force and Lithuanian Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre. SNMG1 flagship Corte-Real in the company of HMCS Toronto and her helicopter had the chance to work side by side with LNS Selis, LNS Skalvis as well as one of their helicopters, exercising a high level of interoperability between Allied forces.
Standing Naval Forces and Allied navies conduct regular complex multinational training exercises to maintain the highest levels of readiness and war fighting capability
SNMG1 also conducted a scheduled port visit to Klaipeda, Lithuania earlier in August, where several coordination meetings were held in order to draw up the settings of these complex exercises. All the interactions between SNMG1 elements and partners were limited and in compliance with NATO-wide COVID-19 safety measures.
Standing NATO Maritime Group One conducting a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Lithuanian Navy in the Baltic Sea on 27 August 2020. Photo: Portuguese Navy
“Standing Naval Forces and Allied navies conduct regular complex multinational training exercises to maintain the highest levels of readiness and war fighting capability”, said Commodore José Mirones, Commander of SNMG1.
The presence of SNMG1 in the Baltic Sea is a regular occurrence contributing to Allied interoperability in the region, allowing our forces to stay fit and ready if crisis or conflict were to strike. As part of the multinational exercises, the Standing Naval Group also conducts planned port visits to Allied and non-NATO nations.