Military exercise named "Decisive Support 24" took place from September 9 to 11, 2024, at the military training ground "Josip Markić" near Knin, with the aim of assessing the operational readiness and coordination of the Croatian Army's Guard Mechanized Brigade (GMBR). During this period, the exercise simulated various scenarios to test key integration capabilities of different tactical and combat elements of the brigade, as well as to improve decision-making skills and protection of forces in field conditions.

The exercise involved 252 brigade members, with operational effectiveness enhanced by 59 various vehicles, including heavy transporters, combat vehicles, and engineering equipment. Additionally, the exercise was monitored by 39 members of the evaluation team from the Croatian Army Training and Doctrine Command "Fran Krsto Frankopan", who carefully observed and assessed the performance of all involved elements.

Coordination and command under complex conditions

One of the key aspects of the exercise was testing decentralized command, where ensuring secure and effective communication channels in real field conditions was crucial. Brigadier Ivan Jenjić, deputy commander of GMBR, emphasized the critical importance of establishing and maintaining a functional network of command channels, which allows command to operate flawlessly even under complex military operations. This exercise enabled the brigade to demonstrate its ability to establish command centers and infrastructure within a short timeframe.

The brigade, through a series of simulations, demonstrated how it can establish comprehensive command capability within 72 hours in field conditions. This includes setting up a command center, establishing key communication channels, as well as protecting the command through anti-aircraft units using the Mistral system. Colonel Dražen Mazalin, operational officer and chief planner of the exercise, highlighted that this system is a crucial part of the defense infrastructure in military operations.

Technological advancement and logistical support

This military exercise not only tested tactical and operational capabilities but also involved advanced logistical operations within GMBR. Logistics play a key role in the successful execution of such exercises by ensuring a continuous supply of resources, ammunition, and equipment necessary for sustaining combat activities. During the exercise, the brigade demonstrated in practice how to successfully coordinate between different military units and systems, thereby confirming its readiness for real operations.

Conducting such exercises is of great importance for the overall capability of the Croatian Army, especially in the context of its ability to respond to modern security challenges. Through complex tactical simulations, GMBR members not only practiced combat operations but also tested advanced technological systems that ensure security and defense in various scenarios. The "Decisive Support 24" exercise showed that the Guard Mechanized Brigade is ready to respond to any challenge presented to them, both within Croatia and in international military missions.

Plans for future operations

The Guard Mechanized Brigade continues to train and enhance its operational capabilities to remain aligned with modern NATO military standards. Exercises like "Decisive Support 24" are crucial for achieving this goal, and the successfully conducted exercise confirmed their readiness for future operations. The brigade continues to strengthen its rapid response capability in crisis situations, which includes further development of logistical support, improvement of communication networks, and establishment of robust defense systems.