The Spanish contingent deployed in Slovakia promotes new cardioprotection measures in its operational bases

•  Our soldiers have installed new defibrillators at Camp Riecky and Camp Slavia I, in addition to providing specific training

 Within the framework of the deployment of the Multinational Brigade Task Force Slovakia (MN BDE TF SVK), the Spanish contingent has reinforced cardioprotection measures in the two operational bases where it operates (Camp Riecky and Camp Slavia I). The main objective of this initiative is to minimise the response time to a possible cardiorespiratory arrest and to ensure that deployed personnel have the necessary means and preparation to act quickly and effectively.

Improving the chain of survival - based on early detection, immediate performance of quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation using automated external defibrillators (AEDs) - is one of the pillars of these measures. The rapid and coordinated application of these procedures significantly increases the chances of survival in cardiac emergencies.

To this end, the contingent has promoted a specific training programme for deployed personnel. These sessions, given by medical personnel, allow them to update and reinforce their knowledge of basic life support and the use of defibrillators. At the same time, a strategic distribution of defibrillators has been carried out, ensuring the immediate availability of these devices in the main activity points and living areas of Camp Riecky and Camp Slavia I.

Captain Esteban Giménez Montoya, a nurse from the 3rd Tercio ‘Don Juan de Austria’ of La Legion, a specialist in emergencies and emergencies, stresses the importance of reinforcing the capacity to respond to cardiorespiratory arrest in the military environment. ‘The key to saving lives is an immediate response. This simple, effective measure, within everyone's reach, can make the difference between life and death,’ he says.

This initiative is part of the contingent's ongoing commitment to force protection and the well-being of deployed personnel, reinforcing their preparedness to deal with any health emergency that may occur during the mission in Slovakia.

Spanish leadership of the NATO Brigade in Slovakia

On 20 January 2024, the Spanish Armed Forces began the progressive deployment of personnel and capabilities to Slovakia to contribute to the deterrence and defence capabilities required by the Alliance. Spain is currently leading the formation of the NATO Multinational Brigade, and maintains a Multinational Task Force permanently deployed in the town of Lešť.

Since 1 July 2024, Spain has assumed the leadership of the ‘Multinational Brigade Task Force Slovakia’. Slovakia, Slovenia, Portugal and the Czech Republic are joining this NATO effort in allied territory in Eastern Europe, which, under Spanish leadership, completes the capabilities of the Task Force.

Our country provides forces and capabilities to this mission as part of the commitments acquired with the International Security and Defence Organisations. Spain is a responsible partner and ally, committed to NATO's defence objectives. This deployment of forces to support and reinforce NATO's forward presence on NATO's eastern flank demonstrates the firm commitment of Spain and its Armed Forces to our allies and Spain's resolute contribution to the Alliance's deterrence efforts in Eastern Europe.