More than 2,000 troops from nine countries — including North Macedonia, the United States, Montenegro, Kosovo, Austria, Greece, Albania, Italy, and the United Kingdom — kicked off the “Immediate Response 2025” military exercise today at the Krivolak army training ground, marking the largest-ever drill on North Macedonian soil.
The exercise, which runs through June 9, is part of the wider multinational DEFENDER 2025 operation involving around 12,000 troops across Europe.
North Macedonia is contributing 950 troops, the U.S. 710, Montenegro 185, Kosovo 150, Austria 70, Greece 50, Albania and Italy 30 each, and the U.K. two personnel.
Troops will deploy a range of advanced military hardware, including Leopard tanks, AH-64 Apache and Black Hawk helicopters, Husky engineering vehicles, 120mm mortars, Mi-8/17 transport helicopters, and JLTV and HMMWV armored vehicles. Live maneuver and combat infantry and artillery ammunition will be used during the drills.
According to North Macedonia’s General Staff, the drill aims to test NATO’s readiness to respond to evolving security threats — including cyberattacks — and to strengthen interoperability and preparedness for complex joint operations.
“Immediate Response 2025” coincides with the 32nd anniversary of the State Partnership Program between the Vermont National Guard and North Macedonia, under the auspices of the U.S. National Guard Bureau.
U.S. Ambassador to North Macedonia Angela Aggeler called the exercise “a clear demonstration of our deepening strategic partnership.” She added, “These joint efforts strengthen our collective commitment to peace and security while boosting the readiness of our forces.”
An open day for the public is scheduled for June 1 in Kavadarci, where weapons, vehicles, drones, mine-detection robots, and tactical equipment will be on display. A multinational live event with media and high-level guests will take place on June 2 at Krivolak, featuring a simulated “reinforced infantry battalion assault.”