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The Spanish contingent deployed in Slovakia takes part in the parade of the 80th anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising

In Lešť, Slovakia
August 30, 2024
  • Personnel of the “Almogávares VI” Paratroopers Brigade (BRIPAC) has represented Spain at this commemorative event in the historical city of Banská Bystrica

Slovakia has commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising with several events in Banská Bystrica, including a military parade in which there has been a large Spanish representation.

Our national flag has been escorted on foot by a BRIPAC Paratrooper Company. Moreover, VAMTAC motorised combat vehicles, ‘Centauro’ combat and reconnaissance vehicles and L118 105 mm Light Gun artillery have taken part in the parade.

The participation of the Spanish Army in the 80th anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising does not only reinforce the friendship bonds between Spain and Slovakia, but also highlights the importance of collaboration and solidarity in the defense of the common values of freedom and peace. The presence of the Spanish troops in this parade is a symbol of commitment and union between both nations.

Spanish military presence in Slovakia

Last 15 July, the BRIPAC took over the command of the Alliance’s Multinational Brigade in Slovakia. The Spanish contribution to this multinational brigade translates into the presence in Slovakian territory of near 800 troops and more than 200 different types of vehicles. It is the largest international deployment of the Armed Forces to date.

With the deployment of the F-E/SVK II contingent, Spain demonstrates its value as a responsible partner and allied country, committed to the NATO’s defence objectives. This contribution of the forces, providing support and enhanced forward presence on the eastern flank of the NATO, provides evidence of the firm commitment of Spain and its Armed Forces to our allies and its determined contribution to the deterrence efforts of the Alliance in Eastern Europe, and more concretely in Slovakia.

This commitment also enables to maintain a high level of training and interoperability of all the deployed capabilities. The Lešť area, where the Spanish forces are deployed, facilitates to a great extent the instruction and training of the units, thanks to the extensive manoeuvre field. Within the latter, other allied nations are integrated, collaborate and receive training who, under the Spanish command, complete the capabilities of the operational group deployed. Among them, the contribution of the Portuguese armoured units and the Czech mechanised units should be highlighted. 

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