Latvia Transfers Command of NATO's 1st Standing Naval Mine Countermeasures Group to Poland 0 22

In honor of this event, a ceremonial handover of command to a Polish officer is scheduled in Riga, symbolizing the rotational nature of NATO leadership and the collective commitment of the Alliance to ensure maritime security.

Under the command of Captain Janis Auce of the Latvian Navy, SNMCMG1 conducted extensive mine countermeasure operations and ensured the safety of navigation in the Baltic region. The group discovered a total of 57 historical sea mines and four unexploded ordnance items, including five MK25 mines of Danish manufacture.

The group neutralized and destroyed 40 historical mines, five MK25 mines, and four explosive items, thereby enhancing navigation safety and freedom of shipping.

"The past six months have been some of the most intense yet professionally satisfying of my career. The results achieved clearly demonstrate our contribution to strengthening NATO's collective defense and deterrence. During this time, we effectively conducted readiness exercises, achieved full mutual integration, and accomplished all tasks as a cohesive and highly professional group of ships," emphasized Auce.

According to him, the presence of the group and its constant readiness conveyed a clear and convincing deterrent signal, demonstrating the resolve of allies and their ability to respond promptly to any threat. Auce added that SNMCMG1 is ready to defend every inch of NATO territory.

This is the second time Latvia has been entrusted with the command of SNMCMG1 – the first time was in 2017, which reflects the trust of allies in the professionalism, competence, and capability of the Latvian Navy to carry out strategically important tasks in strengthening NATO's collective security.

During NATO's military activity called Baltic Sentry, coordinated efforts were made to protect critical underwater infrastructure and enhance situational awareness at sea. The continuous presence of SNMCMG1 plays a key role in preventing potential threats. Ongoing patrolling, surveillance activities, and readiness for rapid response confirm NATO's commitment to react, deter, and protect key maritime communications in the Baltic region.

Since July 2025, SNMCMG1 has included 11 ships representing 11 NATO ally countries: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal. The group has covered a total of over 12,760 nautical miles, continuously carrying out missions at sea.

The 1st Standing Naval Mine Countermeasures Group of NATO is one of four permanent NATO naval groups. These groups form the maritime component of NATO's Response Forces and act as rapid response forces. SNMCMG1 is one of two multinational naval groups of the Alliance established to conduct mine-clearing operations and demonstrates the Alliance's ability to operate across the North Atlantic region, in the Baltic Sea, and in the Arctic zone.