Naval Mines in the 21st Century: Can NATO Navies Meet the Challenge?

Abstract : With the end of the Cold War, NATO countries have embarked on transformation initiatives within their militaries to address the new security realities of the 21st century. One of the realities that has not changed is the threat posed by sea mines. Global proliferation of sea mines, both older variants and advanced new designs, has continued to grow and presents a unique challenge to maritime security. NATO naval forces must be prepared to counter the danger posed by mines to shipping, both civilian and military, and to ensure that vital sea lines of communication (SLOCS), strategic choke points throughout the world, commercial ports, and naval bases remain open and uncontested as they find themselves participating in more security operations at home and abroad.