U.S. Navy Seabee divers, in collaboration with their Estonian counterparts, performed ice diving and sub-aquatic demolition drills in Estonia.
The program, occurring between 31 January and 17 February 2026, saw participation from frogmen of Underwater Construction Team One, Construction Dive Detachment Bravo, collaborating with the Estonian Rescue Board and Estonian Navy frogmen. The events unfolded at Rummu Quarry Lake and Miinisadam Naval Base.
As stated by the U.S. Navy, this exercise concentrated on advancing cold weather diving proficiencies to bolster naval defense and elevate coalition preparedness in the Baltic region. The curriculum encompassed theoretical sessions, dockside safety exercises, actual sub-ice immersions, and a retrieval reconnaissance of a sunken vessel.
Chief Petty Officer (Constructionman) Keith Reed, a chief frogman serving with UCT-1 CDD/B, observed: “This occasion fosters practical proficiency within one of the most arduous underwater settings conceivable.”
He further noted: “Performing sub-ice operations necessitates complete reliance on gear, protocols, and fellow divers, particularly in situations where accuracy, preparedness, and rigor squarely influence operational achievement.”
The U.S. Navy stated that Estonia persistently encounters issues from unexploded ordnance within aquatic routes and littoral zones. The exercise was characterized as aiding humanitarian unexploded ordnance clearance goals and augmenting the capacity of partner militaries to identify and address submerged dangers impacting naval facilities and mercantile transport.
Reed commented: “Ice diving challenges each facet of a frogman’s instruction, from strategizing, coordination, crisis management, to performance.” He continued: “Collaborating with Estonian Rescue Board and navy divers enables us to share methods, utilize their regional knowledge, and advance insights that reinforce frigid-water and polar submersion activities across the Naval Construction Force.”
Lead Constructor David Madmon, the underwater operations liaison with the 22nd Naval Construction Regiment, stated: “This collaboration demonstrates extensive reliable coordination with Estonia and meticulous preparation involving American and partner country units.” He concluded: “Our objective involved synchronizing the appropriate proficiencies, guaranteeing security and support arrangements were established, and fostering an instructional setting that yields enduring tactical benefit for the two countries.”