More than 200 soldiers to reinforce deterrence strategy on eastern flank, bordering Ukraine
Less than three weeks since 170 marines left Portugal for a NATO mission in Lithuania, another more than 200 soldiers are being trained up to reinforce a NATO contingent in Romania, again sited on the borders with Ukraine.
Right now, the 7th national force is being prepared in Viseu, with training in an area (the mountains of Trancoso) that offers similarities to the rugged Romanian territory where it will operate.
According to Major Nelson Paulo, the mission will “concentrate on offensive and defensive operations capability, more geared towards defensive operations”.
What distinguishes this new force is the presence of Pandur vehicles, which, compared to other heavy vehicles in the Portuguese army, allow for greater agility in rigorous terrain, while at the same time offering great capacity for transporting soldiers, says SIC.
“We’re expecting more experience and we’re training to put that experience into practice. We’re waiting for something new,” a female soldier, face painted green, confided.
This 7th force will work together with military from other NATO countries, namely Poland, Northern Macedonia, Spain, and the United States. It is due to leave for Romania in June. ND
Source: SIC Noticias
