Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group Two (SNMCMG2) successfully participated in Exercise ITA MINEX 2026, reinforcing interoperability, operational readiness, and cooperation among Allied maritime forces.
Participating in SNMCMG2 units included Hellenic Navy flagship HS Heracles, HS Evropi, TCG Amasra, ITS Numana and ESPS Tambre.
During the exercise, personnel participated in navigation and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) simulator training sessions, as well as professional exchanges regarding the evolving role of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) in mine countermeasures operations. These activities provided a valuable opportunity to enhance coordination, share expertise, and refine tactics in a complex maritime environment.
The tactical phase included maneuvering exercises with ITS Duilio, as well as the execution of Air Defense, Damage Control, Replenishment at Sea (RAS), and Mine Countermeasures serials, further strengthening coordination between Allied maritime forces. The daily participation of Italian Navy air assets, combined with the involvement of ITS DUILIO, created complex and realistic operational scenarios.
Commander of SNMCMG2, Hellenic Navy Captain Dimitrios Karamoutzogiannis, said, “ITA Minex 2026 provided an excellent opportunity to enhance interoperability, strengthen cooperation among Allied navies, and further develop our operational capabilities in Naval Mine Warfare. We leave this event inspired, connected and even more determined to reach excellence through collaboration.’’
Through advanced training and multinational cooperation, SNMCMG2 continues to demonstrate NATO’s enduring commitment to collective defense, maritime security and stability across the Alliance’s area of responsibility. Through advanced training and close multinational cooperation, Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group Two continues to demonstrate NATO’s enduring commitment to collective defense, maritime security, and stability across the Alliance’s maritime area of responsibility.