Since May 27, Albania has been the host nation for Defender Europe 2025, one of the largest and most complex multinational military exercises organized in the region. Coordinated under NATO’s umbrella and involving a variety of allied forces, the exercise serves to enhance interoperability, readiness, and rapid deployment capabilities.
To observe one of the exercise days up close, a journey began at the Farka Air Base, with two helicopters—Black Hawk and Cougar—transporting personnel to the rugged mountainous terrain of Biza, the site of key tactical operations.
The flight lasted only a few minutes, offering breathtaking views of Albania’s natural landscape. Upon arrival, Albanian Armed Forces (AAF) troops were ready for the day’s training missions.
Simulated Combat: A Complex Scenario
A range of operational scenarios has been planned at the Biza base. The first began with an assault operation, where a reconnaissance squad encountered hostile forces during a patrol. The scenario escalated into an intense firefight involving both ground infantry and air support, with helicopters playing a critical role.
One helicopter delivered special intervention units to stabilize the situation. As the simulated battle intensified and casualties occurred, the Black Hawk was deployed to extract the wounded, showcasing rapid medical evacuation capabilities.
“This exercise tests our operational capacity and trains our personnel in real combat scenarios,” said Colonel Genti Bardhi, who oversaw the simulation.
Albania and Kosovo Join Forces
Following the direct assault scenario, the training continued with a mortar firing exercise, conducted jointly by the Albanian Armed Forces and the Kosovo Security Force (KSF). The mission involved both direct and indirect fire operations, aiming to neutralize a target 2,100 meters away on a nearby hill.
“This was the first time we carried out this kind of development together. We launched 28 indirect mortar rounds, and it was a great example of cooperation,” said Second Lieutenant Shpëtim Hasani.
Multinational Collaboration
In total, 1,200 Albanian infantry troops and 30 personnel from Kosovo are participating in Defender Europe 2025, alongside 120 American soldiers. The U.S. contingent plays a key role, contributing an engineering company and chemical defense units, critical for enhancing battlefield support and safety.
“At Biza, U.S. troops are integrated into the battalion group. Their presence ensures that we are prepared to operate and fight together if necessary,” explained Brigade Commander Ardian Lilo of Albania's multinational brigade.
The operations thus far have been deemed a success by the Armed Forces of Albania.
“We’re satisfied because we met all training objectives—from rapid deployment to seamless interoperability with our allies,” added a senior official.
Looking Ahead
After a full day of field operations, the return trip to Tirana once again took place aboard an air force helicopter.
The troops—Albanian, Kosovar, and American—will remain stationed in Biza until June 9, when the final phase of the exercise, focused on rapid reaction capabilities, concludes. This marks the third time Albania has hosted the Defender exercise, following successful editions in 2021 and 2023.
Defender Europe 2025 not only strengthens Albania's strategic military positioning but also reinforces its role as a reliable NATO partner in regional and international security efforts.