By Lt(N) Éliane Trahan – Borden Citizen

Divers from various Naval Reserve Divisions across Canada participated in Exercise ARDENT DEFENDER held at the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre in October.

This was a joint, multinational and inter-agency annual exercise hosted by the Canadian Armed Forces to test joint Counter Explosive Threat capabilities.

Reservist divers were involved in conducting underwater searches, inspections and surveys to detect explosive devices. They worked jointly with Clearance Divers from the Experimental Diving Unit Group in Toronto. Although it was an exercise, the divers actually found unexploded ordnance from decades ago in an isolated area, and the Clearance Divers safely detonated them.

Compared to last year’s participation, the Port Inspection Divers doubled in numbers. “We are thrilled to see the participation climb. It allows us to be one team and work together as Port Inspection Divers and Clearance Divers,” said Clearance Diver supervisor, Petty Officer 2nd class Dan Larche.

Divers are called to do various tasks to ensure Canada’s maritime security. They often work with naval port security teams in support of the safety of Canada’s numerous ports, harbours and waterways, and may also be deployed outside Canada for operations or exercises.