Drifting mines are naval mines that are designed to float on the surface of the water, often carried by ocean currents or winds. They can be deployed in large numbers and are typically used to obstruct shipping lanes or target enemy vessels. These mines can be triggered by contact, pressure, or magnetic fields, making them a significant threat to maritime navigation. Unlike anchored mines, drifting mines can move unpredictably, which increases the risk of accidental detonation or unintended damage to civilian ships. They are often used in military conflicts and can pose long-term hazards to maritime safety, requiring careful monitoring and clearance efforts by naval forces and organizations like the United Nations.