V Corps News

NATO Force Integration Conducts School Project in Lithuania

Spc. Kemarvo Smith — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:00:00 GMT

On December 10, 2025, U.S. Army soldiers from the 407th Civil Affairs Battalion and the 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, partnered with NATO Allies to host a community event for high school students in Pabradė, Lithuania. As part of the NATO Force Integration School Project, the soldiers organized a static display of military equipment and vehicles, allowing students to interact with them and learn about the U.S. Army's role in their country. The engagement was designed to foster a strong community partnership, showcase the U.S. commitment to regional security alongside its allies, and connect with the future generation of Lithuania, reinforcing a shared goal of maintaining safety and freedom in the region.

1st Infantry Division Conducts Platoon Live Fire Exercise in Bulgaria

Sgt. Adel Pacheco Alvarez — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In December 2025, the 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment of the 1st Infantry Division completed its final live-fire exercise of the year at the Novo Selo Training Area in Bulgaria. This training was the culmination of four months of progression from individual to collective skills, focusing on enhancing the unit's lethality and efficiency. The exercise simulated realistic large-scale combat operations, requiring the mortar platoon to coordinate indirect fire to support infantry units as they breached and cleared trench systems. Soldiers faced and overcame challenges posed by adverse weather and difficult terrain, which stressed the importance of deliberate communication, coordination, and equipment maintenance. This training ultimately strengthens the U.S. commitment to NATO's Eastern Flank by ensuring the unit is adaptable, cohesive, and ready for stressful combat conditions.

Innovation Takes Flight at The Best Drone Warfighter Competition

Pentagon News — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In December 2025, the U.S. Army Europe and Africa held a multinational Best Drone Warfighter Competition in Grafenwoehr, Germany, to test and improve unmanned aerial system (UAS) skills among allied forces. Ten teams, including U.S. and European partners, competed in realistic scenarios involving reconnaissance, strike missions, and navigation through difficult terrain and weather. A team from Spain’s Legion Brigade secured first place, demonstrating exceptional readiness and adaptability which they credited to their rigorous daily training rather than specific preparation for the event. The competition highlighted the importance of hands-on, collaborative training in austere environments to drive innovation, refine tactics, and ensure that NATO forces are prepared to integrate advanced drone capabilities for modern warfare.

Deployed U.S. Military Police strengthen overall security

Sgt. James Garcia — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:50:00 GMT

Military Police in the U.S. Army serve a dual role as both soldiers and law enforcement professionals, responsible for maintaining order and discipline. Their missions are diverse, ranging from protecting senior leaders and conducting criminal investigations to patrolling in various environments and coordinating with allied forces, such as in Latvia during Operation Atlantic Resolve. U.S. Army Spc. Mark Garcia, a Military Police Soldier, highlights the significance of his career through experiences like the Best Squad Competition, which tested his squad's physical and mental capabilities. He emphasizes that the role of an MP extends beyond enforcement to include being a standard-bearer, building community, and fostering communication. Working with NATO partners has been a particularly rewarding aspect of his deployment, enhancing interoperability and reinforcing the collective commitment to regional stability. Garcia advises those considering a career as an MP to be open-minded and adaptable, as the experience itself provides invaluable lessons in resilience and personal growth.

Black Sea Air Show 2025: Strengthening NATO Presence through Allied Aviation Demonstrations

Capt. Regina Koesters — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Under vast Romanian skies, a multinational spectacle took flight as United States, Romanian, and German aircraft participated in the 4th edition of the Black Sea Air Show at Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport in Romania on August 2, 2025. With a record attendance of over 20,000 spectators, leaders and Soldiers from the 1st Armored Division and 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) had the unique opportunity to showcase the capabilities of vehicles, equipment, and aircraft to the local community alongside our NATO Allies and partners.

5-7 Cav Conducts Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise

Spc. Nathan Morse — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Camp Tapa, Estonia — Nestled deep within the Baltic country of Estonia, Soldiers with the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, alongside allied forces, executed a combined arms live fire exercise, or CALFEX, July 21-25, at the Central Training Area.

FPV Drone Training in Germany Continues drumbeat of the Army's Transformation Initiative

Maj. Brian Sutherland — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In the wet and rainy woods of Germany, drone blades whirr and cut through the drizzle as Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division test newly minted First Person View (FPV) drones. These drones are part of the US Army's armored brigade combat team TiC (Transformation in Contact) training progression and experimentation, which tests new, low-cost, and portable methods for defeating adversaries utilizing small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). The drones Soldiers are testing are designed to be one-way single munition-drones that strike a moving or stationary target. As weapon systems, these small FPV drones are inexpensive and portable, allowing individuals to deploy them in combat without relying on larger, more expensive weapon systems.

USAG Poland Change of Command anchors garrison on Eastern Flank

Bethany Huff — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

U.S. Army Garrison Poland turned the page on its next chapter of leadership July 15, 2025, as Col. Jeremy McHugh assumed command from Col. Jesse Chace. McHugh will be the first commander with a two-year tenure.

Task Force Iron, Maryland National Guard join NATO allies in Estonia’s Victory Day Parade

Staff Sgt. Joseph Novak — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

On June 23, 2025, U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Iron and the Maryland National Guard joined NATO allies in Estonia’s Victory Day parade in Pärnu. This parade commemorates Estonia’s 1919 victory in its War of Independence and celebrates the nation’s freedom. The U.S. participation – including a color guard and a flyover of Black Hawk helicopters – was meant to demonstrate strong support for Estonia and NATO’s commitment to Baltic security. The event also highlighted the importance of international cooperation, with soldiers practicing cross-border operations. The Maryland National Guard has a long-standing partnership with Estonia, dating back to 1993, and has been instrumental in helping Estonia build its defense capabilities and join NATO. The parade was attended by the President of Estonia, who thanked the U.S., UK, and French soldiers stationed in Estonia.

Baltic Viking enhances Michigan Army National Guard's readiness to support NATO and Latvia

Staff Sgt. Joseph Novak — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

From June 1-13, 2025, U.S. Army soldiers from the Michigan National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment participated in Exercise Baltic Viking in Latvia, training alongside NATO allies from Denmark and the Latvian Armed Forces. The exercise focused on enhancing combat skills, particularly in preparation for large-scale combat operations and modern trench warfare. Soldiers practiced live-fire exercises, machine gun training, and maneuvering within a realistic trench system. A key benefit was the opportunity to learn from and improve interoperability with allied nations. This deployment to Latvia – part of a larger Michigan National Guard mobilization exercise involving over 2000 personnel – demonstrated the state’s ability to rapidly deploy forces and integrate with NATO partners, boosting overall combat readiness and strengthening the alliance. Leaders emphasized the unique value of the training environment in Latvia, which couldn't be replicated elsewhere.

U.S. troops join forces with NATO Allies in a show of unity

Staff Sgt. Christopher Saunders — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

On May 31, 2025, U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Iron, along with NATO allies from the U.K., Romania, Croatia, and Poland, participated in a parade celebrating the 600th anniversary of the city of Ełk, Poland. The event was a way for the multinational battle group – stationed nearby to enhance NATO readiness – to connect with the local community. Hundreds of residents came out to interact with the soldiers and view military vehicles. Leaders from both the U.S. Army and the city of Ełk emphasized the importance of building strong relationships and demonstrating a commitment to Poland’s security and NATO’s collective defense. The parade and festivities highlighted the camaraderie and shared values between the U.S., Poland, and other NATO allies. It underscored the importance of these partnerships in maintaining stability and security in the region.

V Corps, NATO Leaders Showcase Allied Modernization at LANDEURO Warrior’s Corner

Sgt Tyler Brock — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Senior leaders from V Corps and NATO partner forces came together Thursday during LANDEURO’s Warrior’s Corner to discuss how they’re building allied warfighting capability in Europe.

Leaders highlight multinational innovation and integration at LANDEURO

Lt. Col. Cain Claxton — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Bulgaria army and U.S. Army leaders discussed their shared effort to spearhead innovation on NATO’s Eastern Flank at LANDEURO here July 16. Bulgaria army Maj. Gen. Deyan Deshkov, Bulgarian Land Forces commander, and U.S. Army Col. Donald Neal, commander of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment based in Germany, teamed together to deliver the first Warriors Corner presentation at the Association of the United States Army LANDEURO symposium and exposition in the RheinMain CongessCenter.

NCOs at LANDEURO Stress Back-to-Basics Leadership on NATO’s Eastern Flank

Sgt. Tyler Brock — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Senior enlisted leaders from the United States, United Kingdom and Estonia gathered at LANDEURO’s Warrior’s Corner Wednesday to discuss the future of the NCO corps in Europe, emphasizing warfighting, transformation, interoperability, and the need to reinforce foundational skills.

U.S. Soldiers Receive NATO Kaitsel "Defender" Medal in Estonia

Pfc. Jaidyn Moore — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

U.S. Soldiers supporting Task Force Voit were awarded the Estonian Kaitsel "Defender" Medal on June 4, 2025, in recognition of their contribution to the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence mission in Estonia. The award highlights the importance of a strong NATO presence on the Eastern Flank and acknowledges the dedication of troops serving far from home. Task Force Voit played a crucial role in training the Estonian Defense Force on the use of M142 HIMARS, culminating in Estonia’s official unveiling of its own HIMARS systems in April 2025. Through exercises like Winter Camp and Hedgehog 25, U.S. and Estonian forces built trust and proficiency in utilizing the HIMARS, strengthening interoperability and collective readiness to defend against potential threats – reinforcing the alliance’s commitment to security and democracy.

5-7 CAV Strengthens NATO Ties in Estonia (Hedgehog 25)

Sgt. Austin Steinborn — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

U.S. Soldiers from 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment participated in Exercise Hedgehog 25, a large multinational training event led by the Estonian Defence Forces from May 5-23, 2025. The exercise, involving over 16,000 participants from 11 NATO nations, focused on enhancing Estonia’s defense capabilities and interoperability through realistic, combined arms training. Initially serving as an opposing force, the U.S. unit challenged allies in diverse terrains, then partnered with Estonian forces in live-fire exercises, integrating M2A4 Bradley Fighting Vehicles and drone teams into joint operations. Participants highlighted the value of the training in refining tactics, improving decision-making, and building trust, ultimately increasing the lethality and readiness of forces along NATO’s eastern flank as part of the broader Steadfast Defender 25 initiative.

7th Engineer equipment moves by river barge for the first time since 2019

Capt. Thomas McCarty — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

On May 21, 2025, U.S. Soldiers from the 260th Movement Control Team began a river deployment of critical engineering equipment via the Danube River to Constanța, Romania, in preparation for Saber Guardian – a key exercise within Defender Europe 25. This deployment highlights a strategic shift towards utilizing Europe’s river networks for faster, safer, and more cost-effective heavy equipment transport, offering tactical advantages like discreet movement and reduced logistical strain. The operation will culminate in a large-scale wet gap crossing exercise, demonstrating NATO’s ability to project combat power across natural obstacles and emphasizing the importance of interoperability and innovative logistical solutions for maintaining readiness and maneuverability in Europe. Ultimately, this initiative showcases rivers not as barriers, but as vital corridors for military mobility and power projection.

Staying Strong: 4-6th Infantry Regiment Conducts a LFX with M2A1 Abrams In Bulgaria

Spc. Nathan Arellano Tlaczani — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

On May 13, 2025, U.S. Soldiers from Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, conducted a live-fire exercise at the Novo Selo Training Area in Bulgaria, utilizing M2A1 Abrams tanks to practice movement, defense, and target engagement. This training, led by Captain Edwin Hansen, focused on enhancing the platoon’s combat effectiveness, communication, and ability to provide high-mobility firepower in support of other units – reinforcing the U.S. commitment to NATO allies and partners in Europe and ensuring readiness for potential deployments. The exercise also highlighted the importance of crew cohesion and trust for mission success and soldier safety.

U.S. Army Soldiers Join Forces in International Training Event

Staff Sgt. Michael Dunagan — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Summarize this one: Approximately 300 soldiers representing the United States, Poland, Romania, Lithuania, Sweden and the Czech Republic participated in NATO Exercise Brave Boar from May 17-19, 2025. The exercise, hosted by the Polish Land Forces 16th Mechanized Division and focused on enhancing joint combat operations in a complex urban environment. Each nation played a specific role in the collaborative maneuver, including air-supported suppressive fire, air assault and insertion, air medical evacuation, rapid land deployment of personnel, tactical building entry and clearance, engaging enemy forces and close-quarter combat. “This is all about forming a team, we have multiple organizations all coming together, each bringing something to the table, but in the end, we have the same objective,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. William Branch, commander of NATO Multinational Battle Group Poland. “One thing I want my soldiers to take away from this experience is to learn from our partner allies and teach them that despite our different backgrounds, we’re all in this together as one element.” U.S. participation included soldiers assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, in support of Task Force Iron. Their role involved the rapid deployment of two squads of personnel using Joint Light Tactical Vehicles equipped with M240B machine guns and two Polish Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles with the objective of seizing and securing two buildings occupied by armed enemy forces. Moments before the exercise began, the silence across the simulated urban training site was palpable before an amalgamation of gunfire and explosions erupted throughout the area. Above the gunfire an F-16 Flying Falcon cut across the sky paired delivering simulated fire support. Following the first round of air support, unmanned aerial observation drones were sent into the compound to assess the environment and prepare for ground support. “We always treat exercises like this as if they were happening,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Ryan Schurman, an infantryman with Charlie Company, whose fire-team was first to make entry. “There’s no way to predict what could be waiting for us inside or what will happen, so we take everything seriously to stay prepared.” “It’s always wonderful working with our partner allies every chance we get, especially for these types of exercises,” said Polish Land Forces Master Corporal Robert Ryzco, a recon section leader assigned to the 16th Mechanized Brigade embedded with Charlie Company during the exercise. “I love seeing how our way of room clearing compares to the Americans’ method, and every nation has learned something from one another during the event.” Collaborative training exercises like Brave Boar offer soldiers an immersive opportunity to improve communication and operate as a unified force on the battlefield. Task Force Iron’s mission is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent to increase lethality, while strengthening partnerships with NATO allies and regional security partners. The task force provides combat-credible forces to V Corps, America’s only forward-deployed corps in Europe.

Task Force Iron supports Crystal Arrow, Swift Response in Baltic Exercises

Staff Sgt. Rose Di Trolio — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 13:00:00 GMT

VIDZEME, Latvia – Members of Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, the Latvian Armed Forces, and NATO allies conducted joint live-fire missions during Exercise Crystal Arrow, part of the larger DEFENDER 25 series in conjunction with Swift Response, May 5-31, 2025. As a prelude to Swift Response and DEFENDER 25, Crystal Arrow had more than 3,000 NATO troops and 1,200 military and armored vehicles participate in training exercises, including live-fire events within the Vidzeme area of Latvia. The cohesive multinational exercise is focused primarily on sharing joint tactics and enhancing urban defense operations. These combined missions strengthened alliances between NATO allies, demonstrated capabilities against potential threats, and reinforced the bond between NATO and the United States in the Baltic region. An advantage for the Baltic states conducting such exercises is the close cooperation between Latvia’s Mechanized Infantry Brigade and local communities. Crystal Arrow incorporated public roads, forests, and airspace, all used with minimal disruption and no lasting impact damage. These urban defense tactics help foster coordination with local communities and environments, if ever needed, to deter threats from adversaries. The exercise also improved understanding between soldiers and leadership to better understand how to employ close air support and indirect fire support against enemy targets. "We are out here training as a multinational brigade, and this gives us the opportunity to work together and to help each other as a team," said Sgt. Elijah Aceret, a gunner with the Alpha Battery. “It is important for the U.S. and NATO allies to work together because the United States does not know the terrain out here like the Latvian Army and Multinational Brigade, as they know this land by heart. By working with them, we can work together to build a better and more cohesive multinational brigade.” Currently deployed to Latvia, the 1-41st Field Artillery Regiment supports NATO alliances with M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzers. The M109A7 Paladin is a cannon artillery system designed for fire support in combat operations. After completing certifications earlier this year, the Paladin crews maneuvered across the range, coordinating with their counterparts to execute timed, precision fires during the live-fire event. “The significance of Crystal Arrow is integrating U.S. field artillery doctrine with Latvian Forces. It is important for the U.S. and NATO allies to work together because we have a multitude of systems that do not talk and we have to find a way to work around to come up with different solutions to get the mission done,” said Staff Sgt. Justin Drew, a gunnery sergeant with Alpha Battery. Exercises like these ensure crews maintain lethal proficiency on the battlefield while improving interoperability between NATO allies. This ultimately strengthens the bond and relationships that allies have to deter any threat that may arise. Members from the 1-41st Field Artillery Regiment, as a part of Task Force Iron, fall under the guidance and direction of V Corps. V Corps participates in more than 50 exercises, symposiums, and leader summits annually with allied and partner nations to build capability and capacity along NATO’s Eastern Flank. This ultimately strengthens readiness, lethality, and warfighting capability through collaborative forums and multinational training exercises that adapt to evolving operational challenges. "We are participating in Crystal Arrow, and we are doing this because we are showing the Latvian Army support, to show that the U.S. is here and we are here to stay," said Sgt. Brandon Cross, a section chief with the Alpha Battery. “The significance of this exercise is to show our adversaries that NATO is involved, NATO is here, NATO is here to stay, and that we are strong.” Through exercises like Crystal Arrow, U.S. and NATO forces demonstrate their commitment to collective defense and regional stability. These training events deter aggression by showcasing readiness, assure allies of the United States' unwavering support, and reinforce the strength of multinational partnerships. As threats evolve, so too does the alliance; united, prepared, and forward-postured to defend every inch of NATO territory.