U.S. and Armenian Soldiers Join Forces for Peacekeeping Exercise in Armenia
Approximately 85 U.S. soldiers are set to train alongside approximately 175 Armenian soldiers during the upcoming Eagle Partner peacekeeping exercise in Armenia. This joint training, scheduled to take place from September 11-20, aims to boost interoperability and enhance relationships between the two nations’ military forces at a tactical level.
Led by the U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the training will involve personnel from the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and the Kansas National Guard, along with soldiers from the Armenian 12th Peacekeeping Brigade. The exercises will be conducted at the Zar and Armavir Training Areas near Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.
Colonel Martin O’Donnell from the U.S. Army Europe and Africa expressed the significance of this exercise, stating, Eagle Partner is a vital opportunity for our soldiers from our two nations to build new relationships at the tactical level and to increase interoperability for peacekeeping operations. It also builds upon the 20-year relationship that the Kansas National Guard has cultivated with Armenia.
It is worth noting that the Kansas National Guard maintains a state partnership with Armenia as part of the Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program since 2003. This collaboration has facilitated valuable exchanges and cooperation between the two military organizations.
Furthermore, the planned training is of particular importance for the Armenian 12th Peacekeeping Brigade as it prepares for a NATO Operational Capabilities Concept (OCC) evaluation under the NATO Partnership for Peace program later this year. The exercise will help enhance their preparedness and adherence to international peacekeeping standards.
By working together, U.S. and Armenian soldiers aim to strengthen their joint capabilities and foster closer ties in the field of peacekeeping operations. This collaborative effort provides an opportunity for both nations to learn from each other’s experiences and exchange best practices.
The Eagle Partner peacekeeping exercise exemplifies the commitment of the United States and Armenia to maintain and enhance their cooperation in the realm of defense and security. The joint training efforts not only strengthen military capabilities but also promote stability and peace in the region.
As the exercise unfolds, the participating forces look forward to a successful training period that will certainly contribute to the continued partnership between the U.S. and Armenia, fostering a safer and more secure environment for all.
