Joint Port Security Drills Strengthen Alliances

Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2 and the Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2 Training Unit recently concluded joint training with Montenegrin and Albanian naval forces during Immediate Response 25, part of the broader DEFENDER Europe 25 exercise. 

The exercise focused on maritime readiness, including port security drills, escort missions, tactical formations, and escalation-of-force scenarios. Capt. Christopher Milner, commander of MESG 2, said the collaboration helped reinforce regional partnerships and showcased interoperability with NATO allies. The multinational operation took place from May 25 to June 9, 2025, in the Ports of Bar, Montenegro, and Durres, Albania.

MSRON 2 deployed 32 sailors, two patrol boats, and support equipment from the U.S., staging operations through Greece. According to Lt. Vincent Zehentbauer, the exercise gave crews a chance to execute real-world missions alongside local naval forces, enhancing communication and coordination in coastal environments.

This marked MSRON 2’s second Immediate Response exercise with Montenegro and its first with Albania. It featured integrated training with Albania’s Iliria-class patrol boats and emphasized mobility and joint operations. The unit operated under Commander Task Force 68, which oversees expeditionary missions for U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa.

DEFENDER Europe 25 is the U.S. Army’s largest annual European exercise, involving 25,000 troops from 29 nations across 15 countries. The event is designed to test rapid deployment, multi-domain operations, and alliance coordination.