Army Reservists 'Ready to Stand By' Nato Allies Amid Rising Tensions
Following reported Russian airspace violations, the commander of a regiment of army reservists stated that training with Nato allies has taken on "slightly more significance." The remarks were made during a two-week training exercise with armed forces in Croatia. The annual training exercise, Sava Star, has been running for 13 years.
Heightened Awareness and Reassurance
Lt Col Andrew Lawson of 4 Mercian emphasized his awareness of the potential threat. Despite Russia's denials of airspace incursions into countries such as Poland and Estonia, the need for collaborative training remains paramount. "There are Nato countries that are closer to that threat, therefore it makes perfect sense that where we have the opportunity we work with them, to reassure them that we will stand by them," said Col Lawson.
The Sava Star Exercise: Building Joint Capabilities
The annual training exercise, Sava Star, has been fostering closer ties and enhancing joint operational capabilities between the Croatian Armed Forces and various British Army regiments for over a decade. It's designed to address current international security issues.
Reservists Ready to Serve
Cpl Jack Harley, an HGV driver from Kidderminster, is among the 120 personnel from 4 Mercian participating in the exercise. As a reservist for 11 years, he has served in Estonia and Cyprus, and trained Ukrainian troops following the Russian invasion. He stated, "A lot of people seem to think it's like Dad's Army, but we get integrated a lot with the regular Army. As a battalion, we are equally as prepared as everyone else."
Alistair Budden, an environmental consultant, echoed the sentiment, stating his readiness to serve on the front lines if required. "I'd like to mobilise and go out, because it would be a good experience for me and to support the Army as a whole," he added. Budden said a lot of preparation went into reservist training.
Commitment to National Service
The 4 Mercian regiment has reserve centres across the UK. Kyle Bedson, an electrician from Stoke-on-Trent, expressed his desire to be called up for active service, inspired by his siblings' service in Afghanistan. "If something was to arise, I'd definitely volunteer to go straight out there, and do my bit for my country."
Croatian Perspective: Adapting to a Changing Security Landscape
Capt Matej Takalic from the Croatian Armed Forces emphasized the importance of sharing tactics and techniques with the British Army in the current climate. He noted the shift in the global security environment, stating, "The changing security environment in the world, especially on the eastern borders of the Nato lands, is rapidly changing from counter-insurgency to large-scale combat operation." He added, "We're probably going to have to work together in the future."
