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The aim of BMH 08 is to train and demonstrate that NATO, in participation with other submarine operating nations, can perform life-saving operations in support of a distressed submarine, including all medical aspects involved in a submarine disaster. It will also help to validate assets and standard operating procedures, further develop rescue systems and advertise Submarine Escape and Rescue (SMER) capabilities to nations outside NATO. It will involve deploying personnel and rescue assets from Canada, France, Greece, Germany, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, UK and the USA.

The scenario for BMH 08 is the simulated sinking of a large submarine, the fictional HMS SERENDIPITY, as a result of a collision with a merchant vessel. The submarine will be resting at a depth of around 100 meters with up to 80 survivors. The scenario will require the employment of all submarine escape and rescue assets on scene in a coordinated rescue and medical scenario.

The aim of the exercise will be to test both rescue assets and the Command and Control functions of submarine rescue, including: Remotely Operated Vehicle; Atmospheric Diving Suits; Air Supply/Ventilation Systems and Divers; Debris Removal and Emergency Life Support Store re-supply. Submarine rescue vehicle pilots will mate with the bottomed submarine and dry-transfer personnel between the submarine rescue vehicle and the bottomed submarine.

BMH 08 will also integrate the deployment of the Submarine Parachute Advisory Group (SPAG), who will exercise their role of being first response in the course of a rescue.

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