Kurtaran 2026 Submarine Rescue Exercise

The Kurtaran-2026 Submarine Search and Rescue Invitation Exercise was conducted in the Southern Aegean between 15–21 April, in association with NATO Allied Maritime Command’s (MARCOM) DYNAMIC MINOTAUR-26 tabletop exercise.

The exercise brought together a broad range of naval, air, and specialised rescue assets. Participating naval forces included a frigate, a submarine rescue ship, two rescue and towing vessels, three submarines, two mine countermeasure vessels, two Tuzla-class patrol boats, and a large harbour tug. Air assets comprised a maritime patrol aircraft, two helicopters, and two unmanned aerial vehicles. Specialised elements included a parachute search and rescue team and a submarine evacuation and rescue assistance team.

Additional support was provided by a Cougar ambulance helicopter from land forces, a CN-235 transport aircraft from the air force, and two coast guard boats.

Conducted under the slogan “We leave no one behind,” the exercise also saw contributions from friendly and allied nations. In total, approximately 1,000 personnel participated, alongside 16 ships—including three submarines and three rescue vessels—and seven aircraft. The event also hosted 21 observers from 13 countries, underscoring its multinational character and role in enhancing interoperability in submarine search-and-rescue operations.

The scenarios used in this year’s Kurtaran exercise are very similar to those in the 2019 exercise, held 5 years ago at the same location. You can read my notes on that exercise here: Kurtaran 2019 Submarine Rescue Exercise