NATO has conducted its largest anti-submarine warfare training across the waters of Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.
Hosted by Iceland, the 11-day Dynamic Mongoose exercise aimed to “track and destroy threats lurking beneath the surface.”
The activity involved 15 surface ships from 10 NATO members and seven maritime patrol aircraft for support. Missions focused on intercepting three submarines simulating the exercise’s “adversary” team.
The skills and experience honed during the counter-submarine training will be employed in future frontline operations and related exercises.
“To be able to bring this experience and knowledge to the table to support our NATO allies is beneficial to all, as we learn valuable lessons through working with our allied counterparts,” Royal Navy Underwater Warfare Chief Petty Officer Chris Griffiths explained.
‘Invaluable Opportunity’
During the event, the Royal Navy leveraged HMS Northumberland’s advanced sonar solutions.
The Type 23 frigate was deployed alongside the service’s 814 Naval Air Squadron, which specializes in operating Merlin submarine hunter helicopters.
“It’s great to be working alongside our NATO allies as part of the alliance’s premier anti-submarine warfare exercise,” HMS Northumberland’s Commander Will Edwards-Bannon said.
“Hunting submarines is a team sport and Dynamic Mongoose is an invaluable opportunity to not only train as an individual unit, but also share expertise across the alliance – developing our collective defence across the underwater battlespace.”
Anti-Submarine Tanker Support
The British Tideforce tanker was also present in the exercise and completed several replenishments for the allied task group.
“Participating in a large NATO exercise has been a welcome addition to Tideforce’s busy schedule,” Tideforce Commander Capt. Chris Clarke said.
“Operating in the North Atlantic both for ship, and any embarked squadron, is always a tough environment; you need to expose yourself to its challenges if you are to be sure of your capabilities when necessary.”