It is at the same time a frightening and impressive sight to see a mine that detonates. The explosion pushes the water away with an immense force and it is this force that can destroy the ship that triggers the mine. During DANEX 08 several mines have been detonated but no unfortunate ship has been harmed. The mines have been detonated by placing a small explosive charge next to the mines which then “takes the mine along” when it is triggered.

Mine countermeasures consist of two elements: finding the mines and neutralize them. Modern mine hunting is done with advanced equipment – for example sonar that uses sound waves to form a picture of what is lying on the sea floor. The art is then to discern a mine from other objects. When a mine is found then two possibilities are given: to leave it or to blow it up.

During DANEX 08 it is the Danish mine clearance vessels STØREN and MAKRELEN as well as the German ship WEILHEM which have trained their ability to find mines. In the exercise the mine clearance vessels must pave a secure way through mined areas so that the rest of the naval force can move ahead with a minimal risk.