The handover of command of EUFOR’s Aviation Detachment was officially marked today at Camp Butmir, where Lieutenant Colonel Alessandro Guadagno assumed command from Lieutenant Colonel Paolo Costaperaria.
The Aviation Detachment consists of two flight groups operating CH47 and AB205 helicopters from the Italian Army Aviation. During his six-month term, Lieutenant Colonel Costaperaria provided essential air support to the mission, including reconnaissance and transport capabilities crucial for training activities, territorial monitoring, and support to local authorities.
Throughout the rotation, the unit conducted numerous operational and training activities in support of the Multinational Maneuver Battalion, the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Police Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Among the most significant events was the three-day exercise “Air MEDEVAC Evacuation Training,” which focused on emergency medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) procedures, aiming to improve and strengthen operational techniques and procedures, while enhancing interoperability between the personnel of the Italian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and emergency medical services from hospitals in Banja Luka and Sarajevo.
Also, the Arx Alpina operation enabled advanced heavy aviation capabilities for transporting and setting up a new mountain shelter on Mountain Prenj in collaboration with the Jablanica Mountain Rescue Service. Using the EUFOR CH-47 Chinook helicopters, the specially designed mountain shelter was safely transported to its new location, where it will provide important shelter for hikers, walkers, and rescuers in one of the most demanding mountain environments in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the ceremony, COM EUFOR Major General Maurizio Fronda thanked Lieutenant Colonel Costaperaria for his professionalism, dedication, and the excellent results achieved during his command. Addressing Lieutenant Colonel Guadagno, he emphasized the strategic importance of the Aviation Detachment within EUFOR ALTHEA and Italy’s continued, tangible contribution to security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
