Chief of the Defence Staff of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Rear Admiral Giedrius Premeneckas observed the dynamic display and force presentation at Distinguished Visitors Day of Exercise Steadfast Dart 26 organized by the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE).
Exercise Steadfast Dart 26 trains multi-domain (land, air, maritime, space and cyber) readiness, operational deployment and effective collaboration between Allied Reaction Force (ARF) elements and the Host Nation. A Host Nation ensures civilian and military assistance to Allied forces deploying in its territory or transiting it in peacetime and crisis to facilitating smooth arrival, deployment and operation.
Exercise Steadfast Dart 26 involved approx. 10000 military personnel from 11 NATO Allies rehearsing quick large-scale deployment of personnel and equipment, approx. 3000 vehicles, including armored equipment, via the “military Schengen” area and practically efficiency of assessing logistical, legal and infrastructure solutions in moving forces within Europe.
According to RADM Giedrius Premeneckas, lessons learned at the exercise were key to Lithuania as a NATO Ally and a potential Host Nation. “Our aim is to be able to conduct a quick and smooth force arrival, deployment and action. This means preparedness to make available CIS technology, lodging, catering, medical and other services, so that Allied forces can reach operational goals.”
The dynamic display showed off the ARF ability to complete operations in a coordinated and effective manner after deploying to a training area near the city of Bergen in Germany from their home bases across Central Europe. Uncrewed and drone jamming capabilities were also put on display at the event especially focusing on innovation, NATO interoperability and ability to integrate advanced technology in multinational operational environment. Guests of the event were able to meet ARF and Host Nation personnel, systems and procedures, thus building interoperability and readiness for joint operations.
Photo credits: Lithuanian Armed Forces, NATO Media Centre
