C-130 aircraft landing in Tuzla marks start of 'Silver Arrow' exercise

TUZLA, (Patria) - The practical part of the military exercise “Silver Arrow” began with the landing of an American C-130 Hercules military aircraft at Tuzla International Airport. Over the next four days, from 09/09 to 12/09/2019, members of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Maryland National Guard, and the U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) will participate in the exercise in coordination with Tuzla International Airport.

Tactical controllers for aircraft guidance (Joint Terminal Air Controllers - JTAC) within the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina will be trained for the first time during this exercise. Members of the logistics of the AF BiH will practice loading and unloading procedures from the C-130 aircraft, which will contribute to improving the capabilities of the AF BiH.

Members of the AF BiH often use material and technical resources and equipment from partner countries during their participation in peacekeeping operations, which is why it is very important for them to be trained in their use. The C-130 Hercules medium transport aircraft is used by the armed forces of 60 countries worldwide.

“The training contributes to maintaining and improving partner capabilities, and achieving interoperability with the U.S. Armed Forces, with the aim of improving regional security,” said Brigadier Emir Kliko, commander of the 5th Infantry Brigade of the AF BiH, which is the main host of the exercise.

As part of the exercise, on 12/09/2019, from 09:00 to 11:00, an Open Day will be organized at the "Dubrave" barracks and airport location. Students from primary and secondary schools from the Tuzla region will visit. On this occasion, a part of the armament and equipment available to the AF BiH will be presented, as well as a demonstration of the operational capabilities of the AF BiH.