One of NATO’s biggest annual naval exercises, the Black Sealed Drill, “Seal Shield 25,” is intended to improve cooperation between NATO countries and prepare for a variety of threats. The drill is at a time of rising tensions in the region, with the Black Sea playing a strategic role in the east side of NATO.
The 1,600 Romanian army is participating along with 11 partner states: Albania, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, the UK, the Netherlands, Spain, the US and Turkey.
Dozens of ships, patrol planes, helicopters and troops of about 2,600 people from 12 countries are taking part in the exercise. This simulates a variety of scenarios, including the hybrid threats to maritime and air attacks. Complex training operations include live-action exercises and attack simulations designed to prepare NATO response functions.
An alarm, about 64km from the Romanian coast, stings calm ocean air. An unidentified target was discovered by radar and alerts were launched instantly across the fleet. Aviation support is ready, and the IAR 330 Puma Naval Helicopter is lifted on a maritime reconnaissance mission.
Modernization and constant vigilance are needed
Among the participating units is the Mining Prevention Black Sea Task Group, created in 2023. “There is a risk of mine drifting that affects operations,” explains Lieutenant Colonel Kataling Harabagiu, commander of combat and operational services, riding on the frigate “King Ferdinand.”
The exercise also includes special forces, combat divers, and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense experts, simulating a wide range of modern war scenarios.
Deputy Chief Cornell Cojocal, commander of the Romanian Navy Fleet, stressed the need for modernization and constant vigilance. “There have been threats since the war began, and the Russian Black Sea Fleet has attacked Ukraine on both ground ships, submarines and aviation,” he said. “Just as we need highly trained personnel, we need the latest technology.”
The exercise provides an opportunity for NATO to refine its strategy and strengthen its collective defense measures in the Black Sea.
The exercise was first held in 2015, and this year’s edition will end on April 11th after a 12-day thorough drill.
Video Editor Lucy gave
