NATO and Norwegian naval forces have begun Exercise Arctic Dolphin 26 off western Norway, bringing together Allied surface ships, submarines and maritime aircraft for two weeks of intensive anti-submarine warfare training in Arctic conditions, the alliance has said.
The exercise, running from 2 to 13 February, is being conducted in the Vestlandet region and is focused on anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations while also certifying new submarine commanders in what NATO described as one of its most demanding maritime environments, according to the alliance.
Training activity is taking place across Bjørnafjorden, Sognesjøen and Sognefjorden, with participating vessels also conducting a port visit to Bergen prior to the start of the exercise.
Norway has deployed the frigate KNM Thor Heyerdahl and an Ula-class submarine, while Allied forces include a German submarine supported by French, German, Norwegian and Spanish frigates, as well as aircraft and helicopters from Germany, Norway, Spain and the United Kingdom, including P-8 maritime patrol aircraft. Danish Seahawk helicopters are also participating.
Exercise Arctic Dolphin also includes the involvement of one of NATO’s standing maritime formations, Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1), highlighting the alliance’s continued focus on the High North.
Commodore Kyrre Haugen, Chief of the Norwegian Fleet, said: “The participation of NATO’s Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) is particularly important, as it underscores the Alliance’s commitment to maintaining a credible and persistent presence in the High North.” He added: “It also provides valuable opportunities for combined training with multiple NATO Allies.”
Rear Admiral Joaquin Ruiz Escagedo of the Spanish Navy, Commander of SNMG1, said: “Arctic Dolphin provided an invaluable opportunity for NATO maritime forces to operate together at sea in a realistic and challenging maritime environment to hone our tactical skills in anti-submarine warfare.” He added: “We thank Norway for hosting this exercise and for their leadership and expertise in Arctic security. Our time spent at sea embodies NATO’s deterrence and defence mission and validates that we are indeed stronger together as Allies.”
A key objective of the exercise is the certification of new submarine commanders, who will practise evading detection while being hunted by Allied surface and air units. Captain Jim Robertsen, Head of the Norwegian Submarine Service, said: “Arctic Dolphin provides high-end, realistic training for both submarine crews and future commanding officers.” He added: “Conducting submarine operations together with key Allies is essential both for certifying commanders and for strengthening interoperability and Allied cooperation.”
