Exercise Arctic Dolphin 26 Commences in Norway, Bolstering Allied Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities

Intensive Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Underway

Exercise Arctic Dolphin 26 has officially commenced in Vestlandet, Norway, bringing together Norwegian and Allied naval forces for two weeks of intensive anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training. Running from February 2 to 13, 2026, the exercise is designed to strengthen collective defense capabilities and certify new submarine commanders in the demanding Arctic environment.

Key Participants and Locations

The exercise is taking place across strategic waterways in western Norway, including Bjørnafjorden, Sognesjøen, and Sognefjorden. Prior to the commencement of the drills, several participating ships conducted a port visit to Bergen, fostering ties with local authorities and the public.

Participating forces include:

• Norwegian Navy units, such as the frigate KNM Thor Heyerdahl and a submarine of the Ula-class.
• Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1), highlighting NATO's continuous presence in the High North.
• Naval assets from several Allied nations, including submarines from the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as German support ships FGS Donau and FGS Main.
• Broader participation from countries such as Spain, France, and other NATO members, underscoring the alliance's wide-ranging commitment.

Strategic Importance in the High North

The primary focus of Arctic Dolphin 26 is anti-submarine warfare, a critical skill set for maintaining maritime security in the North Atlantic and Norwegian Sea. The exercise also plays a vital role in certifying new submarine commanders, providing high-end, realistic training for both submarine crews and future commanding officers.

Commodore Kyrre Haugen, Chief of the Norwegian Navy, emphasized the significance of the exercise, stating, 'These exercises are vital not only for the Royal Norwegian Navy but also for NATO as a whole. It demonstrates the Alliance's commitment to its presence in the North and provides us with the opportunity to conduct essential joint training with several allies.'

The Arctic region has seen increased strategic importance due to its geopolitical location and the emergence of new maritime routes. NATO's intensified focus on the High North aims to ensure freedom of navigation and the protection of critical undersea infrastructure. Exercises like Arctic Dolphin 26 are instrumental in enhancing interoperability among allied navies, enabling them to operate effectively in extreme cold-weather climates and contribute to regional stability.