S. Korea, U.S. Conclude Multinational Maritime Mine Warfare Exercise Off Busan

South Korea and the United States have wrapped up a significant multinational maritime mine warfare exercise off the southeastern coast of Busan, involving 15 partner nations. This exercise, known as the ninth Multi-National Mine Warfare Exercise 2026, aimed to enhance mine warfare capabilities and interoperability among the participating navies.

The exercise featured various operations, including mine-hunting, harbor clearance, and port-entry scenarios, utilizing advanced unmanned underwater systems. The U.S. Navy deployed the USS Chief, an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship, while the South Korean Navy contributed with specialized vessels and clearance divers.

Capt. Lee Geun-rok, commodore of South Korea's 52nd Mine Warfare Squadron, emphasized that the exercise significantly improved interoperability and operational execution capabilities in mine warfare. U.S. Navy Task Force 77 commander, Capt. G. Scott Wells, expressed pride in the successful collaboration, stating it strengthened their overall mine countermeasure capacity.

The participation of partner nations, including Japan, Canada, and the Philippines, underscores the commitment to enhancing multinational cooperation in maritime defense operations.