The soldiers of the 34th rotation of the Hungarian KFOR Contingent, who arrived in Kosovo in early March, have successfully passed the Full Mission Capability (FMC) test required to achieve full operational readiness. The assessment is also an exercise, the results of which confirm that the soldiers are totally prepared; they are ready to carry out mission tasks and are prepared to handle unexpected situations quickly and effectively.
During the assessment exam, a key focus was placed on evaluating operational readiness, specifically the execution of Crowd and Riot Control (CRC) tasks in accordance with regulations. A panel of experts assessed the troops’ professional preparedness, evaluating their situational awareness, reaction time, and problem-solving skills in the unexpected scenarios presented during the exercise.
The purpose of the simulation was to manage a gradually escalating demonstration and an agitated crowd, during which the participating units had to maintain control of the situation while minimizing personal injuries and property damage. During the crowd control exercise, the maneuver companies of the Hungarian-led KFOR Tactical Reserve Battalion (KTRBN)—the mission’s reserve tactical battalion—were supported by other mission units, such as police, psychological operations, and logistics forces, thereby practicing joint action and coordinated execution.
Photo: honvedelem.hu
According to the training scenario, the crowd first attempted to overpower the deployed NATO forces through verbal provocation, then with increasingly aggressive means, including Molotov cocktails. The soldiers maintained control of the situation through disciplined and decisive action, deploying tear gas grenades and paintball guns when necessary. The experience gained during Firephobia—specialized training aimed at overcoming fear of fire—proved to be a significant aid in resolving dangerous situations.
The results of the exam clearly demonstrate that the 34th rotation of the Hungarian KFOR Contingent is fully prepared to carry out peacekeeping operations. The successful FMC exam validated not only the soldiers’ professional knowledge, but also their ability to cooperate. It demonstrated that our soldiers are capable of performing their duties to the highest standard, even when serving alongside soldiers from other nations, meaning the contingent is ready for its six-month tour of duty.
Following the successful FMC examination of the 34th rotation, the handover of the contingent commander position took place on March 24 at the Novo Selo camp, with the participation of Major General Özkan Ulutas, commander of NATO’s peacekeeping mission in Kosovo. The event was attended by Dr. László Dux, Hungary’s ambassador to Kosovo, as well as representatives of the nations serving in the mission.
Lieutenant Colonel Gergely Herczog, commander of the 33rd rotation, handed over command of the Hungarian contingent to Lieutenant Colonel Botond Hetényi. Major General Ulutas thanked Lieutenant Colonel Herczog for his outstanding service and welcomed Lieutenant Colonel Hetényi, noting that they had previously served together successfully, so he looked forward to continuing their collaboration and wished him a successful tour of duty for the coming six months.
Via honvedelem.hu; Featured image: honvedelem.hu
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