Some 200 members of the NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Force (ARF) will be deployed in North Macedonia and Kosovo from 30 September to 16 October. Exercises will be conducted to enhance readiness and support for the NATO Kosovo mission (KFOR).
The KFOR press release states that this is the first time an ARF unit has deployed since its establishment in July this year.
"A military contingent of about 50 personnel will be in Kosovo, and a forward command node of about 150 personnel will be deployed in North Macedonia. The deployed personnel will conduct training activities to maintain a high level of readiness and to test their capabilities. Some of the ARF personnel will be temporarily integrated into the command and control structures of the KFOR mission with the task of determining the logistical, infrastructural and operational support requirements of KFOR in the event of a significant escalation of its posture," the NATO mission said.
This ARF deployment, along with the continued deployment of the Strategic Reserve Force (SRF) to Kosovo, sends a clear message of NATO's resolve and strong commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. | BGNES
