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Nov 15 2024

NATO minehunters successfully dispose of 11 legacy mines in Baltic Sea during Estonian “HODOPS”

BALTIC SEA, Estonia – NATO ships have completed a two-week operation to find and destroy legacy mines in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Estonia.

The specialist ships of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) conducted the “Estonian HODOPS” (Historic Ordnance Disposal Operations). They found and neutralised 11 mines, helping to secure maritime routes and significantly enhancing navigational safety in the Baltic Sea region.

The mines, left behind from the two world wars, can present a hazard to shipping.

This excellent result was made possible through close coordination and interoperability between NATO units, showcasing a strengthened ability to work together effectively. The Task Group consists of FGS Werra A514 (Germany), HNLMS Willemstad M864 (the Netherlands), BNS Lobelia M921 (Belgium), ENS Sakala M314 (Estonia), FGS Weilheim M1059 (Germany), LNS Skalvis M53 (Lithuania) and FS Croix du Sud M646 (France).

The Task Group is composed by flagship FGS Werra A514 (Germany), HNLMS Willemstad M864 (the Netherlands), BNS Lobelia M921 (Belgium), ENS Sakala M314 (Estonia), FGS Weilheim M1059 (Germany), LNS Skalvis M53 (Lithuania) and FS Croix du Sud M646 (France)

The Commander of SNMCMG1, Germany Navy Commander Beata Król, emphasised the dedication and professionalism displayed by all Allies involved, as well as the importance of achievement of the core mission whilst contributing to regional security.

By neutralizing eleven mines and securing vital sea lanes, we made the Baltic Sea region yet again safer.

“The success of Estonian HODOPS demonstrates the strength and dedication of our multinational team,” she said. “By neutralizing eleven mines and securing vital sea lanes, we made the Baltic Sea region yet again safer. The high level of interoperability and teamwork displayed over these two weeks has not only enhanced our operational effectiveness, but has also strengthened the bonds between our NATO Allies. I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together.”

The achievements of this operation highlight the commitment of SNMCMG1 to regional stability and maritime security, reinforcing safe and open passage for all vessels in the Baltic Sea.

Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) provides continuous maritime mine countermeasures (MCM) capabilities to execute NATO missions across the whole area of responsibility. It operates under Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM), headquartered in Northwood, United Kingdom. MARCOM is the central command of all NATO maritime forces, and the MARCOM commander is the primary maritime advisor to the Alliance.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM

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