Türkiye-led initiative enters second phase to combat drifting mines in Black Sea

The Türkiye-led Mine Countermeasures Naval Group (MCM Black Sea), established in cooperation with Romania and Bulgaria, has entered its second activation phase.

A press briefing was held on Saturday to announce the continued efforts to neutralize drifting sea mines threatening maritime traffic in the Black Sea.

MCM Black Sea’s mission and operations

Launched in January 2024, MCM Black Sea’s primary objective is to safeguard both commercial and military vessels navigating through the Black Sea by eliminating drifting sea mines.

These mines pose significant risks to maritime security in the region, and the initiative aims to enhance the safety of maritime traffic.

The trilateral initiative operates under a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Türkiye, Romania, and Bulgaria.

This agreement covers a three-year period and is structured around phased operations throughout the year, focusing on the territorial waters and exclusive economic zones of the three nations.

Leadership and command rotation

As part of the agreement, the leadership of the task group will rotate annually among the three participating nations. Bulgaria will take command in the first half of 2025, with Romania assuming leadership in the second half.

Ongoing efforts in Black Sea security

The activation of the second phase signals a continued commitment to the collective security of the Black Sea, with Türkiye, Romania, and Bulgaria working together to mitigate the risks posed by drifting sea mines and ensure the smooth flow of maritime trade.