May 5 2025

Video: Crisis in the Deep - NATO Submarine Search and Rescue

BRUSSELS - At any given time, there are hundreds of submarines in operation globally. For NATO, they provide nuclear deterrence, gather intelligence, conduct anti-submarine warfare and support Special Operations. All while remaining stealthy and effective in our seas and oceans. But what happens if something goes wrong?

Submarine rescue ships are on standby whenever there are submarines in the sea, to provide specialised expertise and equipment if a crisis strikes. NATO undertakes regular exercises to ensure we are prepared to assist submarines in distress. These drills enhance coordination among Allies and effectiveness in real-life emergencies.

In this video, we spent time with the submariners and rescue operators on NATO exercise Dynamic Monarch, to find out just what it takes to respond to a crisis in the deep. Nations involved in the exercise included Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States.