Armenia

Armenian Defense Ministry Investigates Death of Contract Serviceman

On May 7, at 14:00 [local time], contract serviceman Artak Seryozhai Avalyan (born in 1985) was discovered at the preservation location of the N military unit with a gunshot wound to his body. An investigation is currently ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the case. The Ministry of Defense expresses its condolences and sympathies to the serviceman's family, relatives, and colleagues.

Armenian Armed Forces Recognized for Excellence at Vigorous Warrior 2024 Closing Ceremony

On May 9, the closing ceremony of the Vigorous Warrior 2024 military medical exercise took place at the Bakonykuti training center near the Varpalota region of Hungary. Personnel from the Role 2 field hospital MTF, operating under the Military Medical Department of the Ministry of Defence, participated in the event.

Deputy Minister of Defence of the Republic of Armenia, Arman Sargsyan, and Head of the Military Medical Department of the MoD, Colonel Gegham Pashikyan, were among the attendees at the closing ceremony.

The mobile field hospital of the Armenian Armed Forces received high praise for its readiness and the quality of work during the exercise. Servicemembers who participated demonstrated outstanding results and were commended by Colonel Dr. László Fazekas, the Director of the MILMED COE. Additionally, the hospital was invited to join in similar military exercises in the future, the planning of which has already begun.

During the exercise, the mobile field hospital underwent medical assessment according to NATO standards by NATO experts. Based on preliminary results, the hospital was recognized as "Interoperable," enabling it to participate in various multinational peacekeeping missions in the future.

On the sidelines of the closing ceremony, the Heads of Military Medical Services of NATO member states met to discuss further cooperation.

It is noteworthy that over 1,600 representatives from 32 countries and 7 civilian organizations participated in the Vigorous Warrior 2024 military medical exercise.

Armenian Military Academy Participates in NATO Conference on Modern Training Methods

The conference of Heads of the military-educational institutions of NATO member and partner states convened in Washington from May 7 to 10. Colonel Arsen Mangasaryan, the Head of the Vazgen Sargsyan Military Academy of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Armenia, was among the attendees.

The conference focused on discussing modern training and education methods for future commanders and leaders, as well as outlining actions to address current and future challenges.

During the event, Arsen Mangasaryan met with the heads of partner institutions, fostering agreements to enhance cooperation between institutions.

Azerbaijan

International exercises

On May 7, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry announced the commencement of the "Anatolian Phoenix - 2024" International Search and Rescue Exercise in Konya, Turkey. The exercise began with a briefing providing detailed information about its purpose, scenario, venue, tasks, and safety protocols. Azerbaijan's representation includes a group of servicemen from the Parachute Descent and Search-Rescue Service, aviation vehicles from the Air Force, and special forces from the Navy. The exercise is scheduled to continue until May 17.

On the same day, the EFES-2024 multinational exercise kicked off in Istanbul and Izmir, Turkey, involving 1567 personnel from 49 countries. Azerbaijani Army servicemen are participating in practical classes of this multinational live-fire exercise, which is scheduled to run until May 30.

On May 9, the "Anatolian Phoenix - 2024" International Search and Rescue Exercise continued in Konya, Turkey. Participants received a briefing outlining safety rules, tasks, execution sequence, and information about where the search and rescue operation would occur. As per the exercise plan, an imaginary enemy object was evaluated through visual reconnaissance, followed by an ambush on its convoy and capture of terrorist group members. The exercise aims to enhance the knowledge and capabilities of servicemen, promote interoperability, and facilitate the exchange of experience among participating countries' military personnel.

Azerbaijan and Slovakia Forge Strategic Partnership with Signing Ceremony

On the same day, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico participated in a ceremony during which several important documents were signed.

President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Robert Fico signed the "Joint Declaration on the Establishment of Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Slovak Republic."

Additionally, Minister of Defense Industry of the Republic of Azerbaijan Vugar Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Kaliňák signed the "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Defense Industry of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Defense of the Slovak Republic in the field of Military-Technical Cooperation."

Furthermore, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan Zakir Hasanov and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Kaliňák signed the "Agreement between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Defense of the Slovak Republic on Defense Cooperation.

Azerbaijan Hosts Pakistani Delegation for Military Education Cooperation Talks

On May 7, a working meeting took place at the National Defense University, hosting a delegation from the National Defence University of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan visiting Azerbaijan.

During the working session, discussions centered on the recent reforms implemented in military education within the Azerbaijan Army. The meeting also addressed the integration of technological innovations, guided by the directives of President Ilham Aliyev, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan.

Participants received briefings on the historical background of both universities, their education systems, and ongoing educational processes. The dialogue extended to exploring prospects for further cooperation in military education and addressing mutual interests.

Azerbaijan Defense Minister Briefs on President's Directives and Honors Departing Air Force Commander

On May 11, a meeting convened under the guidance of the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov. 

The meeting highlighted a presidential decree regarding the discharge of Lieutenant General Ramiz Tahirov, Deputy Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan and Commander of the Air Force, considering his tenure and contributions. The Minister underscored the Air Force's commendable performance in the Second Karabakh War and other operations.

Acknowledging recent advancements in Azerbaijan's Air Force's development and enhanced military capabilities, the minister noted acquisitions of modern aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, alongside the training of skilled personnel and pilots, as a testament to successful reforms fostering army development. The Air Force personnel have been honored with various awards and medals by presidential orders for their exemplary service.

Georgia

Georgian Defense Minister Visits Romania for Bilateral Talks on Defense Cooperation

On May 8, the Georgian Defense Ministry announced that Irakli Chikovani, the Minister of Defense of Georgia, embarked on an official visit to Romania. Chikovani was welcomed by Angel Tîlvăr, his Romanian counterpart, following an official reception at the Romanian Defense Agency. Subsequently, the two colleagues engaged in a face-to-face meeting, delving into matters of cooperation between the defense agencies of Georgia and Romania in an extensive capacity.

During the meeting, particular emphasis was placed on the collaboration spanning various spheres outlined in the joint declaration of strategic partnership between Georgia and Romania. Discussions encompassed the security dynamics within the Black Sea region, focusing on bilateral defense cooperation between the two nations and Romania's contributions to implementing the vital NATO-Georgia package. Irakli Chikovani underscored the significance of partner countries' support in bolstering Georgia's defense capabilities and facilitating its Euro-Atlantic integration.

Georgia Marks 10th Anniversary of Invictus Games with Deputy Defense Minister's Participation

On May 10, Paata Patiashvili, the Deputy Minister of Defense of Georgia, attended an event commemorating the tenth anniversary of the "Invictus Games" in the United Kingdom. In London, he engaged in panel discussions concerning the rehabilitation, socialization, and support initiatives for wounded and injured military personnel and their families. Discussions also revolved around strengthening cooperation and formulating development plans for the next decade of the Stronger Games Fund.

During his visit to London, Paata Patiashvili held bilateral discussions with the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, who patronizes the Invictus Games held across various nations. Additionally, he met with Dominic Reed and Ken Fisher, executive directors of the Invictus Games Foundation and the Fisher House Foundation, respectively. These meetings focused on cooperation strategies, prospects, advancements in passport development, and the provision of sports equipment for Georgian military personnel.

The Ministry of Defense of Georgia prioritizes social support for military personnel, particularly emphasizing the rehabilitation and socialization of wounded and injured servicemen. Participation in the "Invictus Games" since 2014 has been an integral facet of the physical and psychological rehabilitation process for Georgian military personnel and their families, underscoring the state's commitment to their well-being.