Hungary has the most modern helicopter fleet in Europe, stressed Dennis Bernitz, Head of Western Europe Sales at Airbus Helicopter, at the handover ceremony.Continue reading
In July, the “Kiss József” 86th Helicopter Brigade of the Hungarian Defense Forces began its service in Kosovo as part of the NATO-led peacekeeping force (KFOR). As a member of a special helicopter unit performing air support tasks, they will contribute to stability in the Western Balkans, honvedelem.hu reports.
In March, Hungary offered an Airbus H145M helicopter for a period of one year for NATO’s largest land operation. The first rotation successfully completed its mission at the end of June, and returned to Szolnok (central Hungary).
Photo: honvedelem.hu
The new team arrived for a four-month deployment.
They have incorporated the experience gained by the first rotation into the training program, so that, already familiar with local conditions and relying on existing structures, they can continue the KFOR mission’s air support tasks without interruption.
The Hungarian Air Force supports the KFOR peacekeeping mission with modern technological equipment and a dedicated crew. The Airbus H145M, equipped with an electro-optical sensor (EOS) reconnaissance system, is stationed at the military terminal of Pristina International Airport, together with one Croatian and two Swiss helicopters.
Photo: honvedelem.hu
The multi-role aircraft performs reconnaissance and support tasks in accordance with NATO requirements.
Thanks to the EOS system, the Hungarian rotary wing aircraft is able to provide significant support to allied forces.
The practice and experience gained during foreign service – especially cooperation in multinational operations, the application of common procedures, and real-time information sharing – increase the professional preparedness of the Hungarian helicopter unit. All this contributes to the development of the combat capability and interoperability of the Hungarian Defense Forces, extremely important for effective joint action with NATO member states and other partner countries.
Photo: honvedelem.hu
KFOR is NATO’s largest and oldest peacekeeping operation, ensuring peace and security in Kosovo since 1999. The operation involving 29 countries (24 NATO and five non-NATO members) currently has around 4,600 personnel. It includes over 400 Hungarian soldiers, making the Hungarian Defense Forces’ role in the Western Balkans outstanding among the allies, with Hungary being the fifth largest contributing nation.
Via honvedelem.hu, Featured image: honvedelem.hu