In accordance with the 2026 training plan, the Azerbaijan Naval Forces conducted a live-fire tactical exercise titled “Conducting Defensive Operations Against Threats to Critical Energy Infrastructure at Sea and in Coastal Areas.” The exercise involved the participation of the Air Force, the Coast Guard of the State Border Service, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
According to sea-news.az to the Ministry of Defense, the exercise included combat and support vessels of the Navy, naval special forces, marine infantry units, and personnel and equipment from other relevant agencies.
During the exercise, participating units were placed on full combat alert and deployed to designated operational areas. Various phases included patrol operations and the detection and neutralization of aerial, surface, and underwater threats, as well as drifting sea mines.
Naval special forces carried out missions to protect critical infrastructure facilities, neutralize reconnaissance and sabotage groups, and eliminate terrorist bases with helicopter support. Meanwhile, Ship Boarding Teams successfully executed operations involving the liberation of a hijacked vessel and the rescue of hostages.
As part of the exercise, marine infantry units rehearsed the rescue of hostages held in a populated area. Additional scenarios included extinguishing fires aboard a damaged vessel, evacuating casualties, rescuing individuals from the water, and neutralizing mines attached to a ship’s underwater hull.
The exercise concluded with a demonstration parade featuring participating ships, patrol boats, special-purpose equipment, and newly commissioned armed unmanned maritime systems.
The primary objective of the exercise was to enhance interagency coordination in protecting and defending critical energy infrastructure in the Caspian Sea and coastal areas, while also improving the combat readiness of participating forces. The Ministry of Defense stated that all assigned tasks were successfully completed.
