October 21, Chief of Defence of Lithuania Maj Gen Arvydas Pocius with his counterparts from Estonia and Latvia observed joint training of Baltic and US troops „Sabre Strike". Exercise, its course and key aims were presented, equipment and armaments used were demonstrated to the guests in Adaži Military Area, Latvia. The guests observed live firing, convoy operation, patrolling in populated area, activity in control and check-posts.
The main purpose of the Latvian-hosted exercise is to enhance military interoperability capability of the Baltic States and USA before the multinational operation in Afghanistan.
Lithuanian company based on the National Defence Volunteer Force Vytis Military District 5th Territorial Unitbegins training period before deployment to Ghor province, Afghanistan, next autumn. Latvian personnel delegated to the training event will be sent to Afghanistan as soon as this December, and in their turn US units - next year.
„Saber Strike" is also aimed at ensuring stability and security in the region. „This exercise is one of examples of cooperation of the Baltic land forces," said Chief of Defence of Lithuania Maj Gen A. Pocius adding that other branches of Baltic armed forces are also involved in training: special operations forces hold joint training events, Baltic naval forces take part in exercise, air forces drill their skills.
According to Chief of Defence of Lithuania, exercise „Sabre Strike" is a case of visible NATO's activity in the Baltic States. „This training event is based on one of NATO's underlying principles: one for all and all for one, when you come together and stand shoulder to shoulder, and here we are - the three Baltic States and USA" said Chief of Defence and stressed that the exercise was a great proof of successful strategic partnership between the United States and the Baltic States.
„Sabre Strike" exercise planning process of which extended for a year and a half involves more than 1, 7 thousand of military personnel from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and USA. Lithuania's contingent numbers over a hundred, Poland is ensuring air support in several episodes, Ukraine and Norway have delegated representatives to observe the event.
Military personnel brought a range of military equipment to the exercise: combat vehicles STRYKER, all-terrain vehicles HMMWV, trucks M 1075, M-915, etc.
„Sabre Strike" hosted by Latvia from October 18 to 31 is the biggest training event since the Baltic States joined NATO six years ago. These are also the third training event held jointly by the Baltic States and USA this year: In spring Baltic and US troops took part in host country support exercise „Baltic Host", and in summer - in joint naval exercise BALTOPS.
Baltic States will host „Sabre Strike" for the first time by proposal of the US military command. The event is planned to be held in all the three Baltic States on a rotational basis.
Pictures by A. Pliadis (MoND)
Video report by Sgt L. Kalvaitis.
