Cyber readiness featured in Dynamic Mariner for the first time, with cyber experts from NATO's Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) and NATO’s Rapid Reaction Team (RRT) defending networks & responding to simulated cyber threats in real-time. Support was provided by NCIA experts based in the CIS Support Unit (CSU) in Northwood, UK, and CSU Torrejon, Spain.
The NCIA’s NATO Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) deployed five cyber security experts to practice logistical deployment and provide cyber defence during the simulated cyber-attack. Cyber experts offered their expertise and capabilities to respond to cyber security incidents and crises.
With a focus on innovation, Allied Command Transformation & MARCOM used the vast array of ships and other assets available to advance Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) capabilities. In coordination with industry, teams remotely controlled USVs, shared data with key NATO Partners, and explored future fleet integration. These tests are a crucial step towards deploying large fleets of unmanned systems, strengthening NATO’s maritime power and operational edge.
In total, this large naval exercise brought together more than 4,000
personnel, 30 ships, two submarines, amphibious units, and aircraft from nine Allied nations - Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Türkiye and the United States. The Spanish Navy’s newest submarine, S-81 “Isaac Peral”, participated in a NATO exercise for the first time.
Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) and Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 2 (SNMCMG2) also took part in the exercise – demonstrating seamless cooperation between Allies. NATO's maritime power lies in the ability of these Standing Naval Forces and NATO Allied Reaction Force elements to rapidly join with national forces and task groups to deliver strategic effect. Regular training between these groups provides a collectively trained and interoperable capability that NATO can confidently deploy.
Turkish Navy Rear Admiral (LH) H. Ilker Avci is the Commander of SNMG2:
During DYMR/FLOTEX-25, we had valuable opportunities to train and enhance our capabilities in a multi-threat environment.
“In particular, our units provided escort and protection to Amphibious Task Forces, in which we demonstrated a high level of interoperability among different instruments of sea power. I see this exercise as a success story, a demonstration of the substantial mass of Naval Forces which Allies are able to bring together to deliver effects across the Area of Responsibility.”
More than 30 ships, 2 submarines and four thousand service personnel took part in Exercise Dynamic Mariner 25, seen here during the PHOTEX
Commander of SNMCMG2, Turkish Navy Captain Kürsat Kurnaz, said the exercise marked a significant milestone for the task group.
It not only advanced our mine countermeasures capabilities but also strengthened the bonds among our crews and Allies.
“In a demanding and complex environment, the Group has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and dedication to the mission," he continued. "The successful execution of MCM operations during this exercise proves that we are ready, capable, and fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of our maritime environment, while making a vital contribution to NATO's collective defence."
A key objective of Dynamic Mariner 25 was to enhance interoperability between Allied navies, ensuring that forces can operate together seamlessly in real-world missions. Collaboration with air and land components further strengthened NATO’s multi-domain operational approach.
In a rapidly evolving security environment, NATO remains committed to deterring threats and maintaining stability at sea. The lessons learned during Dynamic Mariner 25 will contribute to future training, ensuring that Allied maritime forces remain ready to respond to any crisis.
With its successful completion, Exercise Dynamic Mariner 25 stands as a testament to NATO’s strength, unity, and unwavering commitment to maritime security.