E=MCM Project Extended Mine Countermeasures
The Extended Mine Countermeasures (E=MCM) project is a three-year European initiative, officially launched at the Royal Military Academy (RMA) in November 2023. Coordinated by Naval Group Belgium and co-funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF), the project unites 22 partners from 11 countries to drive the development of next-generation mine countermeasure (MCM) technologies.
E=MCM is dedicated to designing, prototyping, and demonstrating a system of systems that integrates scalable autonomous toolboxes, advanced decision-support solutions, and intelligent platforms. Together, these innovations will enhance Europe’s capacity to counter drifting, moored, and buried naval mines. Covering the full spectrum of mine warfare — Detection, Classification, Localisation, Identification, and Neutralisation — the project aims to extend the operational reach of MCM forces and deliver prototypes ready for future EU industrialisation.
The Royal Military Academy contributes as a key subcontractor. Researchers from RAS and the CISS Department are actively involved in design and prototyping, building on their expertise as subject matter experts in the Belgian-Dutch MCM replacement programme, which has been ongoing since 2018. This programme will deliver 12 specialised vessels and around 100 advanced drones, providing valuable foundations for E=MCM’s success.
With nearly €45 million in EU funding, E=MCM represents a significant step toward strengthening European defence cooperation and ensuring technological sovereignty in maritime security.
This project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Co-funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF)
€45 million EU contribution
22 partners | 11 countries