Together for a Safer Environment: 'Combined Response 26' Begins

(Patria) - The joint exercise “Combined Response 26” represents a continuation of the years-long successful cooperation between EUFOR and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, confirming the continuous commitment to strengthening interoperability, professionalism, and the security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This exercise builds upon previous cycles from 2025 and earlier years, further confirming the strategic continuity and long-term partnership between domestic and international forces.

“Combined Response 26” is not an isolated event, but part of a planned, systemic process of improving joint capabilities, coordination, and readiness to respond in complex security and crisis situations.

The main goal of the exercise is to enhance the capabilities for joint planning, command, and execution of operations in realistic scenarios. Through integrated activities, participants will further develop interoperability, align procedures with international standards, and test coordination mechanisms at the tactical and operational levels.

Year after year, the exercise clearly confirms joint readiness and coordinated action through professionalism and high training standards, as well as commitment to the stability and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina with continuity and measurable progress from year to year.

The realization of this year's activity will take place in several phases, starting with command-staff and specialist training in March 2026, at the locations of the BiH Armed Forces barracks in Kiseljak (09-13 March) and Pazarić (16-19 March), up to the final tactical exercise with a realistic scenario (LIVEX) planned from April 20 to 24, 2026, at the BiH Armed Forces local training ground on Manjača.

During all phases, the focus will be on the coordination of command structures, logistical and medical support, crisis response, integration of domestic and international procedures, as well as transparency and openness to the public with constant proactive communication with the media through planned Media Days during all training phases and the Distinguished Visitors Day planned for the “LIVEX” on Manjača.

“Combined Response 26” demonstrates a true partnership. The BiH Armed Forces retain full responsibility for their own capabilities and planning, while international partners provide support, expertise, and experience. The focus is not on replacing capabilities, but on strengthening them through joint work and knowledge exchange. Through this exercise, it is further confirmed that Bosnia and Herzegovina possesses professional, trained, and interoperable forces capable of responding to various security challenges – from crisis situations to supporting civilian structures in extraordinary circumstances.

“Combined Response 26” sends a clear message that through continuity, professionalism, and international partnership, safety, trust, and security are built. This exercise represents another concrete step in the long-term strengthening of the capabilities and credibility of domestic forces, in cooperation with international partners, in the interest of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.