The Navy’s Retirement of 13 Ships: What This Means for Local Communities

Enhancing Baltic Maritime Readiness: U.S. Navy and Estonia Conduct Ice Diving Training

Update Building Resilience Through Cold Water Training In a significant move to bolster maritime readiness in the Baltic region, U.S. Navy divers joined forces with Estonian partners for ice diving and underwater demolition training conducted in the frigid waters of Estonia. Spanning from January 31 to February 17, 2026, this collaborative effort took place at Rummu Quarry Lake and Miinisadam Naval Base, emphasizing the importance of developing cold-weather diving capabilities. Collaboration for Security and Readiness This specialized training involved divers from the Underwater Construction Team One working closely with the Estonian Rescue Board and Estonian Navy, showcasing a united front in enhancing both nations' maritime security. Senior Chief Constructionman Keith Reed highlighted the challenges faced during ice diving and stressed the high levels of trust required among equipment, procedures, and teammates in such extreme environments. He remarked, "Operating under ice requires absolute trust, especially where precision, readiness, and discipline directly affect mission success." This collaborative training not only enhances the immediate skills of each diver but builds lifelong collaborations for future missions. Addressing Underwater Hazards Beyond improving individual and team capabilities, the undertaking is crucial in addressing contemporary challenges like explosive remnants of war in Estonia's coastal waters. The U.S. Navy outlined that this training aligns with humanitarian mine action objectives. As threats like unexploded ordnance complicate local waterways, the divers are equipped to detect and respond to underwater hazards that could jeopardize maritime infrastructure and commercial shipping. Chief Builder David Madmon emphasized how the training creates lasting operational value for both nations, ensuring that both American and Estonian forces are prepared for diverse maritime operations. Lasting Impact of Maritime Training The rigorous training regimen encompassed classroom instruction, pier-side safety drills, practical ice dives, and a salvage survey of a submerged barge, thereby demonstrating a comprehensive approach to ensuring preparedness. Such initiatives do not just enhance immediate skills— they form a foundation for operational excellence that impacts broader regional security. Furthermore, this engagement underscores the significance of international training collaborations in enhancing mutual trust and operational efficacy. The Bigger Picture: Strengthening Alliances This year's ice diving training stands as a testament to the long-standing partnership between Estonia and the U.S. through deliberate planning and coordination. As geopolitical tensions rise, exercises like this are vital in reinforcing military alliances. Both nations benefit immensely from shared techniques as they work towards a common goal of safety and security in volatile environments. Conclusion The ice diving training conducted by the U.S. Navy and Estonian forces serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preparedness, collaboration, and resilience in the face of challenges posed by harsh environments. Together, these allies are not only strengthening their military capabilities but also reinforcing the bonds that enhance transatlantic security.