HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians from EOD Mobile Unit SIX and Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic) clearance divers conducted a weeklong bilateral training exercise in Halifax, June 2–6, focused on advancing Allied interoperability through unmanned systems, mine countermeasures diving, and underwater emergency response.
The training, hosted at Canadian Forces Base Halifax, brought together U.S. Navy EOD technicians and their Canadian counterparts to simulate real-world scenarios requiring precise coordination and technical expertise. Divers practiced locating and neutralizing underwater mines, a vital capability for ensuring safe navigation in contested maritime environments. Ashore, teams honed their ability to identify and disarm IEDs, sharing tactics and procedures to counter evolving threats. Small boat operations further enhanced their ability to conduct rapid-response missions in challenging conditions.
“This bilateral training is a force multiplier,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jason Knapp, operations officer for MDSU 2. “By working side-by-side with our Canadian partners, we’re not only sharpening our skills but also building trust and interoperability that will pay dividends in future operations.”
The exercise emphasized seamless integration, with both units leveraging their unique strengths to improve mission effectiveness. The U.S. and Canadian teams also exchanged expertise on equipment and techniques, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational methods. Canadian Clearance Divers demonstrated their proficiency in cold-water diving operations, while U.S. EOD technicians shared insights into advanced render-safe procedures. This knowledge transfer strengthened both units’ readiness for joint missions, whether in regional waters or global deployments.
Cmdr. Marc Warner, commanding officer of MDSU 2, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership. “Our ability to operate together as a cohesive team is critical to maintaining maritime security,” he said. “This training underscores the deep ties between our navies and our shared commitment to a safe and secure maritime domain.”
The Halifax exercise is part of a long-standing tradition of U.S.-Canadian naval cooperation, rooted in shared values and a mutual commitment to North American defense. By conducting regular joint training, both nations ensure their forces remain prepared to respond to maritime threats, from minefields to explosive hazards, with precision and unity.
As global maritime challenges grow, exercises like this one demonstrate the power of collaboration. The U.S. Navy EOD and Canadian Clearance Divers’ successful training in Halifax not only enhanced their operational readiness but also reaffirmed the enduring alliance between the two nations, ready to tackle threats beneath the waves and beyond.