NATO's Spanish-led Multinational Task Force in Slovakia (MN BDE TF SVK) has increased its military capabilities with new contributions from Slovakia and Romania.
This week witnessed the addition of an anti-tank detachment from the Romanian Armed Forces, marking the inauguration of its presence in Slovakia. This unit specializes in neutralising armoured threats and will make a significant contribution to operational capabilities. This demonstrates the effectiveness of multinational cooperation within the Atlantic Alliance. In addition, Romania has also deployed a reconnaissance unit in Bulgaria.
Regarding Slovakia, its participation in the multinational brigade has been strengthened with the integration of a reconnaissance section of its army into the Cavalry Squadron under the command of a Spanish captain. This initiative enhances intelligence and scouting capabilities, which are vital for effective operations in complex scenarios.
With these new additions, the MN BDE TF SVK consolidates its capability to face the strategic challenges on the eastern flank with Spain as the framework nation. This is a clear demonstration of our country's commitment to stability and security in this region.
Spanish participation in Slovakia
On 20 January 2024, the Spanish Armed Forces began the progressive deployment of personnel and capabilities to Slovakia. Spain is currently leading the formation of NATO's Multinational Brigade, and maintains a multinational Task Force permanently stationed in the town of Lešť.
In the first half of 2024, Spanish forces were deployed on the ground with the capabilities required by the Alliance. On 1 July of that year, a contingent of more than 800 Spanish soldiers - led by the VI Paratroopers Brigade 'Almogávares', assumed command of the Alliance's Multinational Task Force in this country, succeeding the Czech Armed Forces. In December 2024, the VII Airborne Brigade 'Galicia' assumed command of the MN BDE TF SVK.
Slovakia, Slovenia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Portugal, the Czech Republic and, since a few days ago, Romania are also contributing to this NATO effort in the allied territory of Eastern Europe. Based at the Lest military camp, these international forces, under Spanish command, represent a joint and collective effort to deter any threat to the peace and security of Slovakia and, therefore, of all NATO countries.