Armenia

Armenia and Cyprus Plan Defense Agenda in Telephone Talks

On June 28, the Armenian Defense Ministry reported that Suren Papikyan, the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Armenia, engaged in a telephone discussion with Vasilis Palmas, the Minister of Defence of Cyprus. During the conversation, they discussed matters pertaining to defense cooperation between Armenia and Cyprus. They also deliberated on the agenda for Palmas's upcoming official visit to Armenia.

Azerbaijan

President Ilham Aliyev Reviews Italian-Made C-27J Spartan Aircraft

On June 26, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported that at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, inspected a military transport aircraft "C-27J Spartan," manufactured by the Italian company "Leonardo." The event was attended by Guido Crosetto, Defense Minister of Italy, Edmondo Cirielli, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, and Stefano Pontecorvo, Chairman of Leonardo.

During the inspection, Azerbaijan's Minister of Defense, Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov, briefed President Ilham Aliyev on the aircraft's tactical and technical specifications, operational capabilities, and other relevant features. The C-27J Spartan is designed to conduct military transport missions, airdrop operations for paratroopers and cargo, as well as medical evacuation missions, capable of operating in challenging geographical and operational environments.

Azerbaijan and Italy Strengthen Strategic Partnership in Defense and Education

On June 26, Ilham Aliyev hosted a delegation led by Guido Crosetto, the Minister of Defense of Italy, accompanied by Edmondo Cirielli, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy. President Aliyev marked the occasion as a significant milestone in Azerbaijan-Italy relations, highlighting the commencement of military-technical cooperation between the two nations. He praised Italy's advanced military-industrial capabilities, citing the recent delivery of the "C-27J Spartan" military transport aircraft to Azerbaijan as a testament to the strength of their bilateral ties. President Aliyev underscored the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy across various sectors, noting Italy's prominent role in Azerbaijan's European trade relations with a turnover exceeding $15 billion. He acknowledged the presence and contributions of numerous Italian companies operating successfully in Azerbaijan, participating in various projects, including those in the oil and gas sector crucial for Europe's energy landscape. The President emphasized the foundational role of the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy in nurturing these relations. He also highlighted ongoing collaboration in preparation for Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29 and the establishment and development of the Italy-Azerbaijan University, including plans for a modern educational complex. President Aliyev expressed confidence in the continued expansion of bilateral relations and received gratitude from Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, who conveyed congratulations on Azerbaijan's Armed Forces Day. Minister Crosetto acknowledged the warmth of his reception and the significance of his delegation's visit, emphasizing the burgeoning defense cooperation between the two countries.

On the same day, an official meeting took place between Azerbaijan's Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, and the visiting Italian delegation led by Minister Guido Crosetto. The meeting at Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense included an honor guard ceremony, the playing of national anthems, and the signing of the Book of Honor as per protocol. Colonel General Hasanov welcomed the Italian delegation, highlighting the strategic partnership underpinning Azerbaijan-Italy relations and expressing gratitude for their visit on the auspicious occasion of Azerbaijan's Armed Forces Day and the 106th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Army's establishment. He extended an invitation to Minister Crosetto to attend the 5th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition (ADEX) scheduled for September in Baku. Minister Crosetto reciprocated the warm reception and underscored the importance of reciprocal visits in advancing military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy. The meeting concluded with mutual satisfaction over the current state of military collaboration and discussions on future prospects in military, military-technical, and military-educational domains, as well as other areas of shared interest.

Russian Naval Ships from Caspian Flotilla Make Friendly Visit to Baku

On June 27, the Volgodonsk small artillery and Anatoly Gujvin hydrographic ships from the Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy arrived in Baku for an unofficial friendly visit. Representatives of the Azerbaijan Naval Forces welcomed the ship crews upon their arrival. During their stay, the crews toured Baku to explore its cultural and historical landmarks and also participated in a friendly sports match.

On June 30, the Russian ships concluded their visit to Baku and departed from the port. During their stay, the crews had the opportunity to visit cultural and historical sites in Baku. Additionally, friendly football and volleyball matches were organized between Azerbaijani and Russian military sailors, with the Azerbaijani teams winning both matches. Cups and medals were awarded to the victorious teams.

Azerbaijan and Hungary Strengthen Military Ties with Distinguished Visit

On June 27, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, began an official visit to Hungary. 

On June 28, while on his official visit to Hungary, Minister of Defense Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with Hungarian Defense Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky. At the official welcoming ceremony held at the Hungarian Ministry of Defense, the two ministers reviewed a guard of honor and participated in the signing of the Distinguished Visitors' Book after a military orchestra played the national anthems. Discussions centered on the successful advancement of Azerbaijani-Hungarian bilateral relations and the significance of such visits in enhancing cooperation in military, military-technical, and military-educational domains. Both sides exchanged detailed views on future prospects for joint military cooperation and other mutual interests.

On June 29, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov continued his official visit to Hungary by meeting with Csaba Hende, Vice President of the Hungarian National Assembly. Discussions emphasized the pivotal roles played by the leaders of Azerbaijan and Hungary in fostering bilateral relations, highlighting successful ongoing cooperation in military affairs and beyond. The meeting included a broad exchange of views on the potential avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Azerbaijan Hosts Serbian Delegation for Land Forces Combat Training Talks

On June 28, a meeting titled "Combat Training of the Land Forces and Lessons Learned" was convened at the International Military Cooperation Department of the Defense Ministry. Military experts gathered to discuss the organization and implementation of combat training within the Land Forces of the Azerbaijan Army. Serbian delegates were briefed on Azerbaijan's approach to combat training and related activities.

Officials and experts from both nations delivered presentations outlining their respective Land Forces combat training practices. The meeting featured in-depth discussions and a question-and-answer session addressing shared interests and concerns between the participating parties.

Georgia

International exercises

On June 26, the NATO-Georgia Joint Training and Evaluation Center (JTEC) concluded its target shooting trainer course, overseen by British military advisers. Personnel from various Defense Forces of Georgia units participated, enhancing their shooting skills and instructional techniques. The training aimed to equip them with the knowledge to effectively share their expertise with fellow military personnel. At the "Krtsanis" shooting range, course participants engaged in exercises of varying difficulty levels, achieving commendable ratings under the guidance of British instructors.

On June 28, the international observers-controllers course wrapped up its activities. The theoretical segment was conducted at the NATO-Georgia training and evaluation center, while practical sessions took place at the Norio training base. Trainees were instructed on the roles and responsibilities of observers-controllers, the complexities of operational environments, and methodologies for conducting after-action reviews. This course enabled participants to observe, train, and evaluate tactical-level units in accordance with NATO standards. Organized for the eighth time in Georgia, the course was led by Lithuanian officers in collaboration with Georgian instructors.