MULTINATIONAL BATTLE GROUP WEST (MNBG-W): EXERCISE IN DECANE MONASTERY AREA

The simulated scenario foresaw the commitment of MNBG-W forces to protect the Visoki - Decani Monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On 19th August 2015, units from MNBG-W performed a joint Crowd Riot Control (CRC) exercise in the area of Camp SPARTA, close to Visoki - Decani Monastery, in order to improve the training of the troops and ability to deploy units at short notice.

The scenario scheduled an escalation of tensions and violence. For this reason MNBG-W was called to deploy Crowd and Riot Control elements to maintain a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement in the Special Protective Zone. The simulation foresaw also the reinforcement intervention of Quick Reaction Forces.

All friendly forces, equipped with CRC kits, put into practice the techniques to contain the protesters, according to the latest NATO guidance.

The training has given to all units employed on the ground the opportunity to test their readiness, standardize procedures and improve also the skills of the staff conducting quick decision – making process.

It also contributes to increase "esprit de corps” between personnel of different nations operating in the Battle Group West, the multinational unit leaded by Italy and composed also by Austrian, Slovenian and Moldavian assets.

To contribute in maintaining a safe and secure environment in Decane area is one the most important tasks for MNBG-W. For this reason the unit periodically conducts multinational combined training, focusing on "CRC procedures”, in order to be committed to its mission of 1st responder in the Monastery area.