Maritime Matters Special Episode: Mine Warfare Explained: Why It Matters Now | Sponsored by Exail

Mine warfare has returned to the centre of global security. In this special episode of Maritime Matters, recorded on 14 April, we unpack the strategic and operational implications of naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz — a crisis that has already disrupted one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. Recent reporting has highlighted the scale of the challenge: once mines are laid in contested waters, they are difficult, slow and dangerous to clear. The result is not just a military problem, but a direct threat to global energy flows, maritime trade and Australia’s own economic security. This webinar was sponsored by Exail. In this discussion, Jennifer Parker and Antony Penn examine: • The reality of mine warfare in modern conflict • Why traditional mine clearance methods struggle in high-risk environments • The role of autonomous and uncrewed systems in modern mine countermeasures • What this means for Australia, where 99% of trade moves by sea This discussion connects directly to current events and highlights a persistent vulnerability in Australia’s maritime security. Speakers: Jennifer Parker – former Royal Australian Navy warfare officer and maritime strategist Antony Penn – Commercial Director (MCM), Exail Deanna Nott - Wings Public Relations