S. Korea, U.S. conclude multinational maritime mine warfare exercise off Busan

South Korea and the United States have concluded the ninth Multi-National Mine Warfare Exercise 2026 off the southeastern port city of Busan, involving 15 partner nations. The U.S. Navy described the exercise as aimed at strengthening mine warfare capabilities and interoperability among participating navies through combined maritime operations.

This included mine-hunting operations, harbor clearance, port-entry scenarios, mine detection and neutralization, and seabed surveys using unmanned underwater systems. The U.S. deployed USS Chief, an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship, alongside expeditionary mine countermeasures companies and diving detachments. The South Korean Navy participated with mine laying and hunting vessels, supported by specialized clearance divers and underwater disposal teams.

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