The Sea Breeze 24 exercise, co-led by Ukraine and the US in Scotland, showcased exceptional international maritime cooperation, enhancing Ukraine’s mine warfare capabilities through rigorous training with support from NATO and 11 allied nations.
Sea Breeze 24, a multinational mine countermeasure exercise co-hosted by Ukraine and the United States, concluded triumphantly in Scotland. Held for the second consecutive year on Scotland’s west coast, the exercise brought together NATO and Ukrainian warships, supported by personnel from 11 nations stationed at King George V docks in Glasgow. Over two weeks, participants conducted mine warfare operations in the Firth of Clyde and the Northern Minches, marking the culmination of extensive training for Ukrainian personnel and MCMV crews.
Commodore Banfield MBE, co-chair of the Ukraine Maritime Capability Development coalition, commended the outcomes: “The crews of the Ukrainian mine warfare ships and command staff demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm, achieving all training objectives and surpassing expectations. International maritime cooperation among allies is crucial and will continue to strengthen.” Captain Denys Ivanin, Ukrainian director of Sea Breeze 24, underscored the exercise’s significance: “The success of Sea Breeze 24, with participation from the US, UK, and NATO allies, significantly enhanced our operational capabilities. We are now better equipped to contribute to regional security, particularly in the Black Sea.”
NATO’s involvement, including ships from Germany, Estonia, and France under the Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1), bolstered the exercise’s effectiveness in fostering international cooperation and operational readiness.
Rear Admiral Thomas Wall, USN and NATO submarine commander, highlighted the strategic importance of these joint efforts: “Sea Breeze 24 tested and validated the exceptional training of the Ukrainian navy. The dedication of the crews aboard Chernihiv and Cherkasy exemplifies the robust partnership among NATO members and partners.”
Vice Admiral Thomas Ishee, commander of the U.S. 6th Fleet, emphasized the enduring commitment to maritime security: “Exercises like Sea Breeze underscore the United States’ steadfast support for our allies and partners. The UK’s substantial military aid to Ukraine underscores its commitment to regional stability following the 2022 invasion.”
Sea Breeze 24 not only showcased operational readiness but also affirmed the collaborative strength of NATO alliances in safeguarding maritime security and stability in the region.
