South Korea’s Elite Navy Divers Begin Grueling Winter Rescue Drills

Around 70 divers from South Korea’s elite Navy Salvage and Underwater Demolition Unit (SSU) have begun winter training exercises. The drills started on Tuesday at a naval base in Jinhae, South Gyeongsang, focusing on cold-weather rescue and salvage operations.

The SSU, established in 1950, specialises in ship salvage and underwater rescue missions. This four-day exercise tests divers in harsh winter conditions to improve their readiness for emergencies.

The divers are practising a range of underwater scenarios, including salvage techniques and group sea swimming. Paddling drills are also part of the training to build endurance and coordination in cold waters.

The drills aim to sharpen the unit’s ability to respond to wintertime incidents at sea. With about 70 personnel involved, the exercises reinforce the SSU’s role in maintaining maritime safety along South Korea’s southern coast.