In a display of military collaboration and skill, Polish soldiers from the 3rd Podkarpacka Brigade of Territorial Defense and the 21st Podhale Rifles Brigade joined forces with the American commandos from the 101st Airborne Division in a series of advanced tactical exercises in the Podkarpackie region. The training, focused on what is referred to as “black tactics,” encompassed a wide range of operations including navigating through forested and urban terrain, conducting artillery reconnaissance both day and night, room clearing and building searches, building assaults, situational shooting, utilizing the modern KTO Rosomak armored personnel carrier with the ZSSW-30 remote-controlled turret system against enemy forces, and casualty evacuation.
Lieutenant Magdalena Mac, the press officer for the 3rd Podkarpacka Brigade of Territorial Defense, emphasized the importance of teamwork and effective communication in building solid international experience. The principle of “one team, one mission” played a pivotal role throughout the training, ensuring cohesive action among the soldiers and their allies.
During the three-day-and-night exercise, the soldiers conducted artillery reconnaissance and established observational posts in both forested and urban settings, constantly collaborating with members of the 101st Airborne Division. Training scenarios were designed to mirror real-life conditions, challenging participants with opposition forces that complicated their approach to observational posts. After securing their positions, the soldiers engaged in artillery reconnaissance, target identification, and called for air support using CAS/TGO procedures, which require precise coordination between aviation and ground movements. Communication and coordination were conducted in English, highlighting the international nature of the exercise.
This training marks another cycle in the ongoing collaboration between the 3rd Podkarpacka Brigade of Territorial Defense and experienced American commandos. Such exercises not only foster international cooperation but also enhance interoperability and encourage independence among soldiers in planning and conducting various unconventional operations. Active engagement in cooperation with the Combined Fire Observer Sections from the 21st Podhale Rifles Brigade and the 101st Airborne Division has achieved key training objectives, strengthening interoperability and reinforcing the notion that unity amplifies strength.
Lieutenant Magdalena Mac stressed the significance of these joint exercises in bolstering the capabilities and readiness of the forces involved, confirming the essential nature of international military collaboration in today’s complex security environment.