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NATO KFOR Press Release

Pristina, 24 September 2003 - #03-42

Around 6,500 NATO and Partner's Reserve troops took part in the Operational Rehearsal "Dynamic Response 2003". The rehearsal took place between 26th of August and 24th of September 03. These annual, and long planned "business as usual" maneuvers sent a clear message of NATO and the International Community's strong resolve and commitment to maintain peace and stability in the Balkans region. It demonstrated NATO's ability to significantly reinforce in-theatre forces with so-called "Over the Horizon Forces" (OTHF). The Reserve Forces consisted of multi-national, trained units with a wide range of military capabilities that included light and airborne infantry, amphibious, air mobile, armor, artillery and air attack capability.

The operation took place in an atmosphere of close cooperation with local authorities and International and Kosovan governmental organizations. Troops were deployed into theatre by air, road and rail. They were tasked to conduct "Real World" operations within the mandate of KFOR with the aim of verifying the capabilities of NATO Reserve Forces for rapid engagement at short notice. The validation of operational concepts and terrain familiarization were other key aims.

Military participants in the KFOR elements of the Rehearsal included Germany, Norway and Romania, Italy, the United Kingdom, Greece and Sweden. Whilst some provided ground troops other countries, provided helicopter or close air support missions and tactical command facilities. A very successful photo opportunity was held at the Slatina military Airport of Disembarkation. The specialist skills and abilities of other units were demonstrated at a well-attended Distinguished Visitors and media day conducted at Camp Monteith, Gjilan.

The DYNAMIC RESPONSE 2003 Operational Rehearsal was a great success. The maneuvers clearly demonstrated KFOR's continuing capacity to react quickly, assertively and very flexibly to any challenge to the safe and secure multi-ethnic environment of Kosovo whenever, and from wherever, it might come.

Original signed

Col Stefano SCHIAPPACASSE
IT ARMY
Chief PIO