Spain leads multinational area survey for third rotation of Operation Eastern Flank Slovakia

• This action on the ground marks the start of arrangements for the third rotation deployment

The multinational area survey held at the military facilities of MTA Lešť, Slovakia, brought representatives from various allied nations together. The aim of these working days was to set the basis for the operational success of the new rotation of NATO Multinational Brigade Task Force Slovakia, which will begin in December 2024 and will remain under Spanish leadership.

In addition to Spain, the participating countries include the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Portugal, Slovakia and Romania, which sent their respective commanders and logistical support teams to take part in this essential process for the preparation of the multinational contingent. The survey reflects the spirit of international cooperation that characterises this mission, which is part of NATO's joint efforts.

It took place in three main phases. During the first day, participants arrived at the MTA Lešť, and the agenda of activities was set.

The following day, after the welcome by the Spanish F-E/SVK II Contingent Commander and NATO MN BDE TF SVK, several operational briefings were held at Camp Slavia I, where the challenges and opportunities offered by the mission were discussed, as well as the capabilities of the Multinational Brigade, which is led by Spain. In the briefings, lessons learned from the current rotation were discussed, highlighting areas for improvement and operational successes to be built upon by the new teams. This preparatory phase included a thorough analysis of the 2025 exercise calendar, which will be key to the development of the Force's military capabilities.

The participants made a survey visit to the MTA Lešť facilities, where they had the opportunity to learn in detail about the training and logistical support capabilities offered by the centre.

The successful accomplishment of the multinational area survey is a critical step in ensuring the smooth conduct of the next rotation. At a strategic level, this process not only ensures a smooth and effective transition between outgoing and incoming contingents, but also strengthens cohesion and understanding between the different countries that are part of this multinational mission.

For Spain, leading this process has great relevance. The Army's leadership in the F-E/SVK mission reinforces Spain's image as a reliable and capable partner in the field of international defence. National participation in these missions demonstrates the country's commitment to collective security and its capacity to assume responsibilities in complex scenarios.

Furthermore, this type of meeting strengthens relations between Spain and its allies, which is the key in an ever-changing international environment. Spain not only contributes its experience and resources, but also plays a central role in building a cohesive and effective multinational force, capable of responding to the global challenges affecting international security.

By deploying the F-E/SVK II contingent, Spain demonstrates that it is a responsible partner and ally committed to NATO's defence objectives.This contribution of forces, in support and reinforcement of NATO's forward presence on NATO's eastern flank, demonstrates the firm commitment of Spain and its Armed Forces to our allies and their determined contribution to the Alliance's deterrence efforts in Eastern Europe and in particular in Slovakia.

In addition, this commitment contributes to maintaining a high level of training and interoperability of all deployed capabilities.The Lešt area, where the Spanish forces are located, greatly facilitates the instruction and training of the units, thanks to the extensive manoeuvre field located there. Other allied nations are integrated, collaborate and train there, which, under Spanish leadership, complement the capabilities of the operational grouping deployed. Among them, the contribution of Portuguese armoured and Czech mechanised units stands out.