NATO’s SNMCMG1 changes command

Command of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1) has been transferred to Commander Henning Knudsen-Hauge of the Royal Norwegian Navy.

The ceremony took place at the Akershus Fortress, in Oslo, Norway, on January 15, 2020.

Since the beginning of 2019, SNMCMG1 was led by Royal Danish Navy Commander Peter Krogh.

Over the last twelve months, sixteen ships have contributed to SNMCMG1, patrolling the waters of Northern Europe.

“All nations that contributed ships and personnel to Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One over the last year have shown outstanding dedication to NATO’s mission in the North,” Commodore Jeanette Morang, Commander Surface Forces NATO who presided the ceremony in Oslo, said.

“The achievements over the last year speak highly for Denmark, Commander Peter Krogh and his team, to which we express our greatest appreciation. I look forward to working with Commander Henning Knudsen-Hauge, another highly capable officer that I am sure will continue the outstanding efforts in NATO’s mine countermeasures mission over the next six months.”

SNMCMG1 ships provided NATO with a constant presence in the North to re-assure allies and deter any potential aggressors; monitored NATO’s sea lanes contributing to maritime security; routinely trained with allies and partners, including participation in several large multinational exercises and numerous individual training opportunities, enhancing allied interoperability.

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