Army divers plunged into their work in Minden during an annual test of core trade skills.
Exercise Submerged Shield saw 120 sapper specialists put through serials on the River Weser, including cutting up and removing submerged obstacles.
They also conducted an assessment of the underwater infrastructure – a real-life task for the German authorities – as part of the training programme.
Senior diving operator Lt Col Tony Pick (RE) said underwater skills could be battle winners.
“Armies stopping due to the inability to cross rivers present themselves as a target,” the officer stressed. “Maintaining the mobility of our forces is the primary aim.”
The manoeuvres have previously been carried out in the UK and Cyprus, but this year moved to Germany to take advantage of fast-flowing water conditions.
