The Norwegian Minedykkerkommandoen (MDK, Mine Diver Command) is conducting the exercise Counter Sabotage in the Bergen (western Norway) area between 1 and 12 June. The aim is to strengthen cooperation within total defence and to practise handling explosive threats both on land and at sea.
According to the Norwegian Armed Forces (Forsvaret), the main part of the exercise takes place between 4 and 10 June. During this period, MDK is cooperating with civilian actors, the police, and health and medical services. Clearance divers from the Swedish Navy are also participating in the exercise.
"2026 is the year of total defence. This year's exercise therefore continues to place a strong focus on cooperation between military and civilian actors. In peacetime, crises, and war, we depend on good cooperation and coordination. It is therefore important that we exercise together to protect critical infrastructure. The participation from Sweden provides increased insight and an exchange of experience regarding each other's challenges, and maintains strong cooperation," says the Commander of the Mine Diver Command, Commander Christian Couillault, in a press release.
The scenarios are based on the current threat picture, as described by the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) and military intelligence, as well as experience from real events. The focus is on handling situations where explosive threats may be directed against critical infrastructure. According to the Norwegian Armed Forces, the experience gained from the exercise will contribute to strengthening preparedness and the capability to handle explosive threats.