In this thesis, modern naval mine warfare systems and their importance in naval combat operations are described and analyzed. The historical course of the development of naval mines from the appearance of the first blueprints for construction to the smart modern naval mine warfare systems that are used today is presented, as well as the application and role of these weapons in previous wars. The basic principles of operation and activation, the possibility of use in modern warfare, the psychological effect on the opponent's and own forces, the classification of weapons and the comparative advantages and disadvantages compared to other modern weapon systems in naval warfare are explained. Furthermore, a comparative analysis explained the importance of modern mine weapon systems as highly effective weapons in the context of realizing strategic advantages on the sea battlefield and the numerous possibilities of tactical – operational actions provided by the use of mine weapons. The importance of mine weapon systems for the Croatian Navy is shown in terms of the favorable geographical position of the coast and the capabilities for defensive action against possible threats that the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia may face in the future.