Romania has launched its largest naval drill in years. The drill, named Sea Shield 25, is one of NATO’s biggest military exercises. It brings together troops, ships, aircraft, and combat units from twelve NATO countries. The exercise aims to improve security in the Black Sea region. It also helps NATO members train together for real-world threats.
The Scale of Sea Shield 25
Sea Shield 25 is a full-spectrum maritime drill. It simulates different types of threats, from hybrid attacks to naval and air combat. This year’s exercise includes live-fire training and high-intensity scenarios. The drill tests how quickly forces can respond to unexpected threats.
The Black Sea is a key area for NATO. This exercise helps strengthen NATO’s defense capabilities in the region. The drill involves forces from Romania, Albania, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, the UK, the Netherlands, Spain, the US, and Turkey. A total of 2,600 personnel are taking part in Sea Shield 25.
Swift Response to Threats
During Sea Shield 25, naval and air units practiced responding to real-time threats. A radar alert led to an IAR 330 Puma helicopter taking off from a Romanian ship. The helicopter raced to investigate an unidentified target 64 kilometers offshore. This quick response shows how ready NATO forces are to face maritime challenges.
Naval units also worked under combat alerts. They reacted to radar signals and coordinated with air forces. These joint operations helped improve NATO’s response time and cooperation across different units. Forces trained to handle a variety of combat scenarios, from mine clearance to countering air attacks.
Fighting Maritime Hazards
A major focus of the exercise was neutralizing drifting mines. The Mine Countermeasures Black Sea Task Group, created in 2023, worked to clear floating explosives. “Drifting mines are a danger that could stop our missions,” said Lieutenant-Commander Cătălin Harabagiu. His statement highlights the importance of keeping sea routes safe for NATO missions.
Special forces, divers, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) specialists also took part in the drill. They trained to handle dangerous situations like chemical or biological attacks at sea. These CBRN specialists worked alongside naval and air forces to practice how to respond to these complex threats.
NATO’s Focus on Modernization
NATO’s forces have faced growing threats in the Black Sea. Rear-Admiral Cornel Cojocaru, a Romanian Navy official, called for more modern equipment and continuous military readiness. “We need modern technology and well-trained forces to handle these challenges,” he said. Cojocaru stressed the importance of staying alert and prepared to defend the region from any threat.
The exercise also allowed NATO to refine defense strategies. Commanders practiced how to respond to crises and how to work together during stressful situations. This helped them improve their skills in leading joint operations.
Sea Shield: A Key Part of NATO’s Strategy
Sea Shield began in 2015 and has grown into one of NATO’s key exercises. Each year, the drill helps improve NATO’s defense and readiness in the Black Sea. The exercise concludes on April 11, 2025, after twelve days of intense training. It has shown how well NATO forces can work together under pressure.
NATO’s commitment to strengthening its defenses in the region is clear. The exercise helps ensure that all member countries are prepared to respond quickly to threats. As tensions continue to rise in the region, NATO’s united response is crucial for maintaining stability.
The Importance of NATO Cooperation
Sea Shield 25 is more than just a military exercise. It is a reminder of NATO’s dedication to security and peace. The drill shows how NATO members can unite to face challenges together. By working as a team, NATO forces are ready to respond to any threat that may arise.
NATO continues to prioritize modernization, readiness, and cooperation. These qualities are key to defending the region from any future threats. As Sea Shield 25 comes to a close, NATO has demonstrated its strength and unity. The exercise has made clear that NATO is prepared to protect the Black Sea and its member nations.