Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1

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Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1

Welcome to the Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One official page. SNMCMG1 is one of four NATO teams operating in the international arena.

The first group was formed in the Belgian port of Ostend May 11, 1973 and went by the name of Standing Naval Force Channel being under control of so-called English Channel Force Commander. The purpose of the appointment of the Standing Group was primarily to ensure the safety of navigation and approaches to ports in the English Channel and the North-West Europe. In the event of a conflict with the

Warsaw Pact countries the Group was to change the operating area for the North Sea over West Germany. Initially, the team belonged to mine ships from countries which also today make up the Group: Great Britain, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. Two more countries (Norway and Denmark) joined the team in year 2000, when the team was reorganized. The operating area of the Group was significantly expanded, and the name changed into Mine Countermeasures Force Northern Europe. Defining new threats and thereby increasing the spectrum of tasks to their elimination, led the team to becoming a global-scale group, which could operate in almost every corner of the world. Changes in the nature of the Group and the subsequent change of name to NATO Response Force MCM Force Northern Europe were approved at the NATO summit in Prague in 2002. In the same year the group was joined by ships from the new members of NATO: Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. The team changed its name two times since. In January 2005 that was: Standing NRF Mine Countermeasures Group One, and exactly one year later: Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One, which is the name used nowadays. In view of the fact that the Group consists of ships of different flags, its command is rotating annualy. During exercises an international maritime staff operates as well. Since January 2023, the group has been led by Royal Norwegian Navy Officer CDR Ole Torstein Sjo.

08/09/2026

Sincere congratulations to Canada on the Accession of the Reigning Sovereign. May this special occasion continue to reflect Canada’s proud traditions, history and enduring values. 🇨🇦

02/09/2026

⚓ NORTHERN VIKING 26 — EXERCISE COMPLETE

Exercise Northern Viking 26 has come to an end. SNMCMG1 successfully contributed to this multinational exercise, strengthening interoperability, readiness and our ability to operate together in demanding maritime environments.

Together, we train. Together, we are ready.

29/08/2026

At sea, every second counts.

During NORTHERN VIKING 26, SNMCMG1 personnel are conducting realistic emergency response drills, strengthening their ability to fight fires, control damage and provide immediate assistance to casualties.

Through realistic training, the Group builds the readiness and confidence needed to respond when it matters most.

28/08/2026

🌊 WHERE THE MISSION GOES BELOW THE SURFACE

During Exercise Northern Viking 26, SNMCMG1 divers are putting their skills to work in the challenging waters around Iceland.

Their expertise is a vital part of mine countermeasures operations — helping to keep the seas safe and supporting freedom of navigation.

25/08/2026

During Northern Viking 26, SNMCMG1 units conducted tactical ship manoeuvres as part of a FLEETEX.

Operating in challenging sea conditions, the crews put precision, coordination and seamanship into practice.

23/08/2026

⚓ NORTHERN VIKING 2026 IS UNDERWAY!

On 22 August, Allied forces began Exercise Northern Viking 26, strengthening interoperability, readiness and the ability to operate together in the strategically important North Atlantic and High North.

As part of the exercise, ships and personnel of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1) are contributing their specialised maritime capabilities alongside Allied forces.

Training together builds cohesion, enhances readiness and demonstrates the Alliance’s ability to deter and defend.

Stronger together. Ready together.

15/08/2026

Happy Armed Forces Day, Poland!

Warmest wishes to our Polish colleagues on Armed Forces Day!
Proud to serve alongside you and strengthen our shared commitment to peace and security.

Together we stand stronger! 🤝⚓️

13/08/2026

On the way to the next port visit, SNMCMG1 units conducted GUNNEX training, strengthening teamwork, coordination and readiness at sea.

Training together keeps NATO forces prepared, united and ready to act when needed.

Strong. United. Ready.

05/08/2026

Training beneath the surface. The Portuguese EOD Diving Team carried out diving exercises while deployed with SNMCMG1 aboard N42 Jotvingis.

Every dive builds readiness, teamwork, and the ability to respond to underwater threats.

01/08/2026

From the sea to the heart of London. ⚓

SNMCMG1 is honoured to visit this historic city, where maritime tradition meets modern partnership. Every port visit is another opportunity to strengthen bonds with our Allies and engage with the local community.

Address

London
HA63HP

Website

http://www.mc.nato.int/missions/maritime-groups/standing-nato-maritime-mine-countermeasures-group-one.aspx

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