The Bulgarian Naval Base in Burgas is currently hosting “Poseidon 2024,” an annual joint mine countermeasure exercise involving naval forces from Bulgaria, Romania, and various NATO allies.
This year’s exercise, which began on November 5, is part of a longstanding tradition, having been held since 2002 on a rotating basis between the two countries.
The primary objective of “Poseidon 2024” is to enhance the training of personnel in planning and executing mine countermeasures, as well as conducting surveys in shallow water areas and disposing of unexploded ordnance.
The exercise adheres to NATO standards and procedures, emphasizing the importance of coalition operations in ensuring maritime safety and security.
Participating in this year’s exercise are naval ships and personnel from an array of nations, including Belgium, Greece, Italy, France, the United States, Latvia, Turkey, and representatives from the NATO Naval Command and the Mine Countermeasures Naval Group in the Black Sea (MCM BLACK SEA).
This diverse participation is designed to improve operational and tactical interoperability among the mine countermeasures ships of the Alliance, reinforcing international cooperation in the complex maritime environment of the Black Sea.
Fleet Admiral Velkov, Commander of the Battle and Auxiliary Ships Flotilla, underscored the significance of the exercise, stating, “The objectives of ‘Poseidon 2024’ focus on advancing our personnel’s skills in a coalition format. This includes effective planning and execution of mine countermeasures, shallow water surveys, and the safe disposal of unexploded ordnance.”
Captain I Rank Yusuf Karagüle, Commander of the Anti-Mine Group, highlighted the collaborative nature of the exercise, noting that the group was formed in Istanbul specifically for this initiative.
“Our participation in the Bulgarian-Romanian exercise will not only enhance the operational and tactical compatibility of our mine countermeasure ships but also contribute significantly to the safety of shipping in the western part of the Black Sea,” he said.
The exercise takes place in designated areas of the Bulgarian territorial sea, which have been announced in advance to ensure the safety of all participants and local maritime traffic.
By simulating real-world scenarios and operational challenges, “Poseidon 2024” aims to prepare naval forces to effectively respond to maritime threats in a coordinated and efficient manner.
The implications of such exercises extend beyond immediate military training. With ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Black Sea region, joint exercises like “Poseidon 2024” serve to strengthen alliances and foster collaboration among NATO member states and partners.
This cooperative approach not only enhances military readiness but also contributes to the stability and security of maritime activities in the area.
As “Poseidon 2024” progresses, the focus will remain on refining the skills necessary for effective mine countermeasures and ensuring the safety of maritime routes, which are vital for regional trade and economic stability.
The commitment to ongoing training and cooperation among NATO allies is crucial in navigating the complex challenges presented by maritime security in today’s world.