The annual EUFOR exercise “Quick Response” will be held from 9 to 26 September across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The exercise will involve EUFOR forces from 25 participating countries deployed in BiH, temporarily reinforced by reserve units from the Czech Republic and Hungary, as well as the international peacekeeping force KFOR – Kosovo Forces, EUFOR announced.
In addition, members of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (OSBiH) and law enforcement agencies of Bosnia and Herzegovina will participate and train alongside EUFOR members.
The aim of the exercise is to improve the operational readiness of all forces involved and to confirm EUFOR’s continued support to its partners in BiH in maintaining a safe and stable environment in the country.
During the exercise, citizens may notice increased troop movements, patrols and other military activities, including the deployment of reserve force equipment and helicopters. These activities will be most noticeable in and around Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka, Livno, Orašje, Zenica, Žepče, Tuzla and Prijedor, as well as at the Svilaj and Klobuk border crossings. Some operations may take place at night or involve a greater volume of activities than usual.
The Armed Forces of BiH will support EUFOR by providing exercise locations and logistical support throughout this comprehensive exercise.
EUFOR is taking all necessary measures to minimize the impact of the exercise on daily life. Local authorities and communities will be informed in advance of the movements of EUFOR forces in their areas through the Liaison and Observation Teams and official EUFOR communication channels.
“EUFOR is a strong, capable and reliable partner and remains committed to supporting the BiH authorities in maintaining a safe and stable environment for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina,” EUFOR said.
“Quick Response” is an annual planned multinational military exercise conducted within the mandate of Operation EUFOR ALTHEA, aimed at improving readiness, interoperability and joint operational capabilities among participating countries.
Starting in 2012, EUFOR has conducted an annual exercise “Quick Response”, with the exception of 2014, when the exercise was cancelled. That year, all deployed troops joined the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in supporting the local authorities following the major floods that hit the country. This joint humanitarian operation was called “Operation Joint Endeavour 2014”.
The primary objective of exercise “Quick Response” is to demonstrate the strong commitment of the international community to maintaining a secure and stable environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1575 (2004) and subsequent mandate extensions.
