A total of 2,000 troops from Romania and seven other states are currently taking part in the largest multinational military drill organized by the Romanian Naval Forces this year.

The exercise, called SEA SHIELD 16, started on July 18 and will end on July 22. It takes place in Romania’s territorial waters and the international waters of the Black Sea.

During the military drill, the 2,000 troops will train together at sea and will implement NATO standard operating procedures to combat any kind of threats on the sea, underwater and in the air.

The Romanian Naval Forces participate with 11 ships, two Puma Naval Helicopters, two mobile detachments for missile launch, and a support ship for divers. Moreover, the Romanian Air Forces take part in the air combat exercises with two MIG 21 Lancer aircraft, and a Puma helicopter for medical evacuation, while the Coast Guard brings in a patrol ship.

Bulgaria, Canada, Greece, Poland, USA, Turkey and Ukraine also take part in the drills with five frigates, three submarine hunters, a corvette, a submarine, four aircraft and staff officers.

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Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com

(Photo source: Fortele Navale Romane on Facebook)