The Mine and Threat Exploitation Group (MTXG) successfully spent time with JS Bungo, a Uraga-class mine counter measure vessel from the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.
X-Ray Unit 1 are MTXG’s expert operators of uncrewed underwater vehicles. They are currently in the Gulf operating alongside foreign personnel and ships as part of the recent International Maritime Exercise (IMX).
JS Bungo was the lead ship for the sea phase of the exercise in which MTXG successfully deployed and operated their Remus 300 uncrewed submersible to detect and classify objects of interest.
Lieutenant Craig Wadley, the officer in charge of X-Ray Unit, said: “IMX 2025 has helped to continue demonstrating the collective commitment to the rules-based order within the region and has allowed X-Ray Unit 1 to work alongside the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force to better understand our shared tactics, techniques and procedures.”
Effective collaboration with the Japanese Navy demonstrated the Royal Navy’s ability to use their own uncrewed equipment from a partner warship but also witness a variety of other technology used for underwater operations.
“X-Ray Unit 1 have not only been able to work collectively with the JMSDF to better understand procedures for underwater exploitation but have also been able to fully immerse ourselves in Japanese culture, customs and cuisine – a truly memorable experience and a highlight in many of our careers for sure,” Lt Wadley added.
Along with MTXG X-Ray Units 1 and 3, the Royal Navy also sent expert divers and bomb disposal teams from the Diving and Threat Exploitation Group, and Royal Marines from 42 Commando – the UK’s specialists in boarding operations.