Flagship of NATO’s Mine Countermeasures Group 1 visits Latvia

Liepāja, Latvia – As part of NATO’s commitment to securing critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, the flagship of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) visited Latvia. During this visit, the Commander of SNMCMG1, Belgian Navy Commander Erik Kockx, met with the Deputy Commander of the Minesweeper Squadron, Lieutenant Commander Jurijs Andrejevs, to discuss regional security, ongoing cooperation, and NATO’s efforts to protect critical undersea infrastructure.

This visit highlights NATO’s continued efforts in the Baltic Sentry mission, launched in response to recent incidents involving undersea infrastructure, reinforcing the Alliance’s role in ensuring security and stability in the region.

“Latvia is a crucial Ally in ensuring the security of the Baltic Sea,” said Commander Kockx. “Today’s discussions with the Deputy Commander of the Minesweeper Squadron, Lieutenant Commander Jurijs Andrejevs, reinforce our shared commitment to a safe and secure maritime environment. The cooperation between NATO forces and regional allies is the backbone of our collective defense.”

Operating year-round, SNMCMG1 is an integral part of NATO's Allied Reaction Force, ensuring a continuous maritime presence and capability to execute NATO missions across its area of responsibility. The group's operations not only enhance interoperability among Allied forces, but also reassure member nations of NATO’s steadfast commitment to maritime security.

NATO Force Integration Unit Latvia
Līva Veita
Communication Advisor
Command Group
T +371 67072553

FOTO:Jorn Urbain, SNMCMG1