NATO Multinational Brigade in Slovakia Participates in exercise at Kamenika Training Area

• The Spanish contingent has participated in this tactical exercise that enhances multinational readiness in a multidomain, high-intensity environment

A Tactical Subgroup from the NATO Multinational Brigade Task Force (MN BG SVK), deployed in Slovakia, moved from Lešť to the Kamenika training area in the East of the country to conduct the ALFA III-25 exercise: a LIVEX-style training at Section and Company level.

Among other aspects, this operational activity involved a significant logistical effort to move personnel, equipment, and capabilities to the exercise location. ‘The deployment — carried out by road — required precise planning, involving a wide range of assets and close coordination with the host nation, highlighting the force’s ability to project, sustain, and operate far from its main base, with international synergy being a decisive factor,’ explained the Company Services Officer.

During the exercise, two infantry platoons trained in their specialised combat skills alongside integrated support elements, including mortars, sappers, anti-tank units, and snipers, while also enhancing their capabilities in medical support, supply management, and explosive ordnance disposal. The operations involved both motorised and foot movements, area control, live fire exercises, and a range of defensive and offensive actions. The scenario was simulated within a realistic 360º NATO framework, enabling the engagement of diverse conventional threats as well as irregular actors. This comprehensive training further strengthened the operational versatility of the Tactical Subgroup.

‘The development of the exercise at the Kamenika Military Training Area (MTA) was a great opportunity and challenge for Tactical Subgroup B, where we tested our deployment at the front. In an unfamiliar and demanding terrain, with a large number of assets and personnel, live fire exercises and double-action drills were conducted at high intensity. Moreover, we worked in close coordination with the MTA management and a Slovak Mechanised Battalion’,  stated the commander of Tactical Subgroup B.

This exercise marks the culmination of the third subphase of the Spanish forces’ training cycle in Slovakia, focusing on joint operations with other international Tactical Subgroups within the MN BDE TK SVK. These activities directly contribute to the force’s ultimate readiness goal: meeting NATO’s required standards for widespread combat operations within a multidomain, high-intensity environment.

NATO’s Forward Presence

NATO's military presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance is a key element of its enhanced deterrence and defence commitment, which has been increased in recent years to reflect the new security reality in the Euro-Atlantic area. The forward presence of allied forces is defensive, proportionate, transparent, and aligned with the Alliance’s international commitments and obligations.

This reinforcement comprises eight multinational battlegroups, contributed by framework nations and other allies on a voluntary, fully sustainable, and rotational basis.

Currently, NATO forces and personnel train and conduct exercises together on the eastern flank of the Alliance, demonstrating a strong commitment to unity and solidarity. Forces from contributing nations rotate in and out of the battlegroups, remaining either deployed in the operational area or stationed in their home countries, with the capability to deploy rapidly when needed.

Spanish Participation in Slovakia

On 20th  January 2024, the Spanish Armed Forces began the progressive deployment of personnel and capabilities in Slovakia. Spain currently leads the formation of the NATO Multinational Brigade and maintains a permanently deployed Multinational Battlegroup in Lešť.

During the first half of 2024, Spanish forces were deployed on the ground, contributing to the deterrence and defence capabilities required by the Alliance. Since 1st  July 2024, the Spanish Armed Forces have taken command of the Multinational Battlegroup in this eastern flank country, relieving the Czech Republic.

Slovakia, Slovenia, Portugal, and the Czech Republic, under Spanish leadership, contribute to the deterrence and defence capabilities of the Battlegroup, thereby reinforcing NATO's efforts on the eastern flank of allied territory in Europe. Spain provides forces and capabilities for this mission in line with its commitments to International Security and Defence Organisations. 

Spain is a responsible partner and ally, committed to NATO’s defence objectives. With this force deployment in support of NATO’s forward presence on the eastern flank, Spain clearly demonstrates its firm commitment and the contribution of its Armed Forces to the Alliance's deterrence efforts in Eastern Europe.