Nov 5 2024

NATO’s specialist Minesweepers clear historic mines from Estonian waters

October 31, 2024 – Tallinn, Estonia – NATO’s Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) will take part in an historical ordnance disposal operation (HODOPS) along the coast of Estonia, reinforcing its commitment to regional security and safe maritime operations.

Locating and neutralizing legacy mines and unexploded ordnance, left over from previous world wars, helps to ensure the safety of civilian and commercial shipping routes in the region.

Commander of SNMCMG1, German Navy Commander Beata Król, emphasized the importance of this mission.

By clearing historical ordnance hazards, we are not only protecting vital shipping routes but also preserving peace and stability in the region

“This operation is a powerful example of NATO’s commitment to maintaining safe and secure waters,” she said. “By clearing historical ordnance hazards, we are not only protecting vital shipping routes but also preserving peace and stability in the region. I am confident in our collective ability to accomplish it safely and effectively.”

Units of Standing NATO Mine Counter Measures Group One (SNMCMG1) sailing off coast of Estonia to participate in an historical ordnance disposal operations. From left to right: FGS Werra, Flagship to SNMCMG1 and LNS Skalvis.

The operation demonstrates the high readiness, capability, and interoperability of SNMCMG1. Units from Belgium, France, Germany, Lithuania and the Netherlands will operate alongside Estonia, showcasing NATO’s coordinated response to maritime threats in challenging environments. The task group will rely on coordinated minehunting expertise and precision maneuvers across a variatey of underwater terrains, to locate and safely dispose of historical threats.

SNMCMG1 is responsible for patrolling the waters of the Baltic and Northern Sea during its rotational deployment with NATO Allied Maritime Command.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM with contributions by SPAO SNMCMG1

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