NATO Launches Sea Shield 24 in the Black Sea

Romania, April 8, 2024 – NATO kicked off its multinational naval exercise Sea Shield 24 in the Black Sea today. The exercise, which will run until April 21, involves over 2,200 military personnel and 135 ships, aircraft, and vehicles from 12 Allied and partner countries.

Hosted by the Romanian Navy, Sea Shield 24 is designed to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense on NATO's Eastern Flank. The exercise will focus on a variety of maritime warfare scenarios, including:

Anti-submarine warfare
Air defense
Maritime interdiction
Search and rescue
Critical infrastructure protection

Participating countries include:

Bulgaria
France
Georgia
Greece
Italy
Moldova
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Turkey
United Kingdom
United States

The exercise comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Black Sea region. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its ongoing support for separatists in eastern Ukraine have raised concerns about Moscow's intentions in the region.

Sea Shield 24 is a clear demonstration of NATO's commitment to defending its members and deterring aggression. The exercise sends a strong message that NATO is united and ready to respond to any threat.

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