Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski and Chief of the General Staff Major General Sashko Lafchiski observed the “Seven Stars 25” exercise, a multinational event featuring six countries, highlighting its significance for the host nation, which commands the Southeast European Brigade.

Minister Misajlovski commended the participants and SEEBRIG Command, led by Brigadier General Bilbil Bitri, for their exceptional professionalism in orchestrating the complex exercise, incorporating both computer simulations and field exercises at the “Krivolak” training ground.

The Minister noted the participation of over 200 individuals in the exercise, focusing on collaborative responses to threats and the subsequent establishment of peace, while General Lafchiski highlighted the high level of interoperability among the participants and the successful execution of the exercise, with 90 percent of the field participants coming from the Second Battalion of the First Infantry Brigade.

Responding to inquiries about defense development, Misajlovski affirmed the continuous process of equipping and modernizing the Army, anticipating the completion of JLTV vehicle procurement this year, along with the arrival of Stryker armored vehicles, Mistral anti-aircraft systems, and Boran artillery systems.

The Minister confirmed ongoing efforts to resolve legal issues regarding helicopter procurement and the selection of a legal advisory firm, also mentioning substantial investments in renovating Army facilities, regional units, and procuring new uniforms and boots for Army personnel.

The “Seven Stars 25” exercise, held biennially by the Brigade Command, involves over 200 SEEBRIG members this year, focusing on practicing NATO procedures to enhance interoperability and command and control, ultimately strengthening regional peace, security, and cooperation and demonstrating the Brigade’s readiness for multinational peace support operations.