KFOR’s Multinational Exercise Reinforces Kosovo’s Security

A multinational military exercise titled “Bridge is Too Far” was organized by the 30th Hungarian Defense Forces KFOR at the end of July, involving nearly five hundred participants, reports honvedelem.hu.

The exercise, described as highly complex and realistic, took place in two locations, with the aim of preparing for security challenges specific to Kosovo and integrating the Romanian maneuver battalion into the KTRBN – KFOR Tactical Reserve Battalion.

The background of the exercise stems from the ongoing need to ensure freedom of movement, maneuver, and a secure operational environment in Kosovo.

Additionally, the exercise marked the culmination of the integration process for the Romanian maneuver battalion, that joined the KFOR contingent in July. This integration is a significant milestone, highlighting 25 years of cooperation between the Hungarian and Romanian Peacekeeping Battalions.

During the exercise, which served as the final test for the Romanian squadron’s mission readiness, personnel demonstrated their combat skills in a live scenario. The exercise included various complex scenarios, such as close-quarters security missions and riot control operations. The involvement of law enforcement agencies like EULEX and the Multinational Special Unit (MSU) added to the scale and diversity of the exercise.

Lieutenant Colonel Dávid Szent-Imrey, Commander of the 30th shift of the MH KFOR Contingent, emphasized the importance of this joint effort, stating,

twenty-five years of cooperation between the Hungarian-Romanian Peacekeeping Battalion has just culminated in our joint participation in a peacekeeping operation.”

Similarly, Lieutenant Zalán Szakács, Head of the Operations and Training Section, noted, “joint planning and joint exercises with local forces are particularly important, as they contribute to ensuring the security of Kosovo as effectively as possible through a joint effort.”

The exercise was deemed a success, achieving its objectives of both preparing for security challenges in Kosovo and successfully integrating the Romanian battalion into KFOR. Lt. Col. Szent-Imrey expressed his satisfaction, stating, “the exercise went according to plan, and I am extremely satisfied with the performance of all participants.” This successful exercise marks a significant step in maintaining peace and security in Kosovo through multinational cooperation.

Via honvedelem.hu; Featured Image: honvedelem.hu