At the invitation of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of the Republic of Croatia, Ivan Anušić, the Acting Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, participated in the Distinguished Visitors Day (DV Day), within the framework of the international exercise “Combat Power 26”, held at the Slunj military training area in the Republic of Croatia.
This exercise clearly demonstrated the readiness and capability of our forces to defend the country and the citizens of Kosovo. The exercise was attended by over 3,000 military personnel from Croatia, as well as hundreds of members from allied and partner countries, including the United States of America, Italy, Slovenia, Albania, Portugal, Montenegro, Romania, Georgia, and the Republic of Kosovo.
The Republic of Kosovo was duly represented by a contingent of the Kosovo Security Force, Kosovo Security Force, consisting of 45 military personnel, organized into a light infantry platoon and logistics support elements, including drivers and cooks. During the exercise, members of the KSF demonstrated a high level of professionalism, discipline, and interoperability, confirming that the Kosovo Security Force possesses the capabilities and capacities to operate successfully alongside allied and partner armies.
The “Combat Power 26” exercise, which lasted 11 days, was conducted in challenging terrain. During the exercises, integrated air and ground combat operations were demonstrated, simulating combat scenarios for the defeat of enemy forces and highlighting the high level of coordination among participating forces.
An important element of the KSF participation was also the engagement of logistics capabilities in the field of food services. Today, the KSF has full organic capabilities, providing food support both to its own members and to allied and partner forces during joint exercises. This development reflects the continuous advancement of logistics capabilities, the increase of operational self-sustainability, and the institutional maturity of the Kosovo Security Force.
The participation of the Kosovo Security Force in the “Combat Power 26” exercise is not only a military engagement; it is evidence of Kosovo’s commitment to the development of defense capabilities and contributes to the professional development of its personnel. Through these engagements, soldiers enhance their skills and demonstrate that they are prepared to contribute successfully to international joint missions and operations.
The cooperation between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Croatia remains a strong strategic partnership, built upon a sincere friendship between the two states that stand side by side in facing common challenges.
The Republic of Kosovo will continue to be a reliable partner, contributing with responsibility and dedication toward a safer region and future.
