NATO is working hand-in-hand with the global merchant shipping sector in its new exercise, Dynamic Master 25, marking a significant effort to integrate civilian shipping into alliance crisis-planning.
Running from 3 to 14 November 2025 under the coordination of the NATO Shipping Centre (NSC) at its Maritime Command headquarters in Northwood, the exercise brought together 16 nations alongside commercial shipping partners.
Set across realistic scenarios − spanning dense maritime traffic, simulated cyber-intrusions, and threats to undersea infrastructure − the drill aimed to enhance maritime security and ensure coordinated navigation under crisis conditions. Naval cooperation doctrines such as NCAGS and guidance mechanisms like AWNIS were tested to reinforce the interface between naval forces and merchant vessels.
Nautilus head of international relations Danny McGowan said: 'Merchant seafarers and the vessels on which they work are critical to national supply chains. It is encouraging to see NATO Member States and the NATO Shipping Centre taking part in this exercise to test the readiness of merchant shipping in times of crisis. The Union’s recent report highlights areas for improvement in maritime security and resilience, and we hope that NATO governments and other stakeholders take action on its recommendations.'
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