An Cosantóir

| 15 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE were operational for the training scenarios ahead. As part of our deployment plan, we primed personnel and equipment for air transport via two German heavy air lift aircraft (A400M & C130J), focusing on ensuring that all troops and gear were properly equipped and secured for the journey. Our heavy logistics, including our APC fleet, moved by rail from our forward deployed Logistics Hub in Pfungstadt, Germany to Hungary. To facilitate rapid deployment, Advance Parties were dispatched to assist the four man National Logistic Support Group to organise the rail transfer for vehicles, setting the groundwork for the transportation of equipment by rail. The deployment also involved the transportation of essential supplies such as rations, ammunition, tentage, generators, field kitchens, weapons, and signals equipment by rail, ensuring that all logistical requirements were met for the exercise. Our deployment to Hungary involved a multi-modal approach, with Irish troops traveling from Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel on board German Luftwaffe heavy lift aircraft, while our vehicles, including MOWAG APC's, AUV's, soft-skin vehicles, Karcher Field Kitchens, freight etc. arrived by train from a German logistics base in Pfungstadt, south of Frankfurt. The support provided by the Irish Defence Forces, including logistical assistance and Air Corps support, was instrumental in facilitating our swift and efficient deployment to Hungary. These detailed preparations highlights our commitment to operational readiness and efficiency, and allowed for a successful deployment to MILEX-25. The equipment issued to the Irish contingent of the EUBG is state- of-the-art – the capability of my platoon has increased massively due to the investment made in us by the Defence Forces. They have provided us with advanced tools and technology to enhance our operational capabilities. Personnel in the EUBG operate with modern Virtus body armour and helmets, considerably lighter weight and more ergonomic than its predecessor. The body armour and fighting order is modular and adaptable to the individual soldier's role, allowing a rifleman, GPMG gunner, and section commander to change the layout of their kit to suit them. New communications equipment allows each member of the platoon to communicate with each other. The Mod 24 rifle allows for the addition of a Laser Light Module to the front of the weapon. The LLM provides the soldier the ability to positively identify and engage targets actively with white or infrared light in low light environments. Each soldier is also equipped with the Binocular Night Vision Device, allowing everyone in the platoon to operate effectively at night with no need for illumination. Specialised equipment such as thermal, and drones with night capabilities are also integrated into the platoon. Soon a new Designated Marksman Rifle will also be introduced to the section, providing a section commander the ability to give accurate effective fire at longer ranges. A highlight of the exercise was the live firing exercise conducted at the Bakony Training Area, approximately 65km South-East of Pápa Airbase. This exercise tested our troops' ability to react to effective enemy fire and repel enemy armour and dismounted infantry during the day and at night. Troops engaged in mounted and dismounted defence of an operating base in a simulated scheme of defence, concentrating on our role as the force protection of the group headquarters. Operating under night vision, the troops demonstrated their proficiency in firing platoon and company-level weapons effectively without the need for illumination, showcasing their readiness and skill in challenging environments. As the exercise concluded on the 12th of April, we returned from Hungary, having completed our mission successfully. The short leave period that followed provided a much-needed opportunity for rest and reflection, allowing us to acknowledge our achievements and the invaluable experiences gained during the deployment. In conclusion, the deployment to MILEX-25 was a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and readiness of the Irish troops within the EUBG. This exercise not only strengthened our operational capabilities but also reinforced Ireland's position as a reliable and committed partner in EU security and defence cooperation. As we look back on our time at MILEX-25, we do so with pride, knowing that we have honed our skills, expanded our horizons, and solidified our commitment to serving with pride within European crisis management operations. Irish Mowags on the move to Hungary 2 Pln cooling down after a loaded march 2 Pln arriving in Bakony Training area Irish soldier mans the "War Gate"

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