Fort Johnson, Louisiana – The Kosovo Security Force (KSF) is participating in the large-scale Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) 25-08 exercise at Fort Johnson, Louisiana, through its partnership with the Iowa National Guard. This significant deployment marks Kosovo's involvement in a crucial training event designed to test readiness against high-level threats.
Alongside over 4,000 Iowa National Guard soldiers and approximately 2,000 other U.S. and allied participants, the KSF is engaged in realistic combat operations training. The exercise provides a challenging and immersive environment to assess the ability of participating forces to deploy, fight, and secure victory against a near-peer adversary.
"The 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division from the Iowa Army National Guard is currently conducting a rigorous exercise at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) in Fort Johnson, Louisiana," stated a press release. "This exercise offers a difficult and realistic environment to evaluate the brigade's ability to deploy, fight, and win against a near-peer threat."
More than 4,000 Iowa National Guard soldiers are taking part in this pivotal training event, evaluating the readiness and effectiveness of combat, logistics, medical, engineering, and airborne units in a large-scale warfare scenario.
The challenges of JRTC and Fort Johnson extend beyond the Iowa soldiers. Nearly 2,000 personnel from across the U.S. and allied partners—including the Kosovo Security Force through the State Partnership Program—are supporting this exercise. Their involvement helps to create a dynamic and comprehensive training environment, fostering interoperability and strengthening alliances.
To stay informed as JRTC 25-08 continues, follow the 135th MPAD, 734th Regional Support Group, and the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division.