Estonian and U.S. Navy Divers Conquer Freezing Waters in Historic Ice Diving Drills

Estonian and U.S. Navy divers have completed a joint ice diving exercise at Rummu Quarry, near Tallinn. The training, held from Monday to Tuesday before February 14, 2026, marked the first time American construction divers, also known as Seabees, took part in such drills outside the U.S. Estonian and U.S. teams worked together in freezing conditions to practise underwater operations.

The annual exercise, known as the 'ice camp,' has been organised by the Estonian Navy's diving group for over a decade. This year's event included divers from the Estonian Navy, the Estonian Rescue Board's demining experts, and—newly—the U.S. Navy's Construction Divers.

The teams focused on diving beneath thick ice, searching for and handling explosive devices. Lt. Indrek Paju, who leads Estonia's diving unit, explained that their role involves locating and moving underwater explosives, even in extreme cold. U.S. Senior Chief Petty Officer Keith Reed added that their work included clearing obstacles with controlled explosions.

The exercise tested divers' ability to operate in harsh, ice-covered waters. Both Estonian and U.S. personnel practised techniques for identifying and defusing sea mines and other underwater threats. The collaboration aimed to strengthen skills in challenging environments.

The training concluded with divers demonstrating their ability to work under ice in sub-zero temperatures. The inclusion of U.S. Navy divers expanded the exercise's scope, offering new experience for both sides. Future drills may build on this partnership to improve underwater explosive disposal techniques.