WWII Mines Found and Detonated in Baltic Sea During NATO Exercise

NATO's Baltic Sea Mine Clearance Operation Highlights Unexploded Ordnance Threat A recent NATO military exercise in the Baltic Sea uncovered and safely detonated four unexploded World War II mines. The operation, involving divers, underwater drones, and vessels from 13 nations, underscores the persistent danger posed by thousands of similar devices still resting on the seabed. The discovery took place near Klaipeda, Lithuania, on May 20, 2025. "During the operation, we found four unexploded historical ordinances: three mines and one torpedo," stated Andrius Guralis, the officer in charge of the exercise. This highlights the scale of the problem. These mines pose a substantial threat to maritime traffic and vital underwater infrastructure, such as cables. Beyond the immediate danger, the event also highlights the ongoing need for international cooperation in addressing the legacy of past conflicts. The Baltic Sea region has seen increased tensions in recent years, and this exercise serves as a reminder of the potential for accidental incidents or even deliberate acts of sabotage. The exercise also included inspections of underwater electrical cables, which are increasingly critical to modern communications and infrastructure. The successful detonation of the mines is a testament to the effectiveness of international collaboration in addressing this persistent threat. However, the continued presence of thousands of unexploded devices underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and sustained efforts to ensure the safety of the Baltic Sea.