The Light Infantry Battalion Group has been certified “Mission Capable” after completing an evaluation during the “Shield of the Arbër-26” military exercise at the Biza training area.

President Bajram Begaj, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, commanders, NATO representatives, military attachés and other partners attended the closing ceremony.

Defense Minister Ermal Nufi described the certification as an important achievement for the Land Force and the Albanian Armed Forces.

“Today, the result speaks clearly: the Light Infantry Battalion Group has been certified ‘Mission Capable.’ This is an achievement we should be proud of. At the same time, it brings responsibility. We must maintain this standard, turn this experience into a sustainable operational capability and remain ready to demonstrate this ability whenever the mission requires it,” Nufi said.

The “Shield of the Arbër-26” exercise provided a comprehensive and rigorous evaluation. The assessment followed CREVAL criteria and tested the unit’s ability to plan, command, deploy and conduct operations in a complex operational environment.

The exercise also tested the unit against NATO standards and procedures. NATO representatives monitored the national certification process and focused on standardization and interoperability with allied forces.

“Albania is and will remain a committed ally. We contribute responsibly to the Alliance and constantly work to strengthen our capabilities. In this regard, the modernization of the Armed Forces is an ongoing process,” Nufi said.

Nufi also linked the certification to the broader transformation of the Armed Forces. He stressed that modernization involves more than new equipment. It also requires changes in planning, training and operational procedures.

“Our modernization efforts aim to build Armed Forces that are more capable, mobile, protected and technologically advanced. They must also be fully interoperable with the armed forces of our allies,” he said.

At the end of the ceremony, Nufi praised the commanders, staff officers, instructors, evaluators and all military and civilian personnel involved in the exercise.

He said the certification reflects their work, discipline, training and professionalism.

Meanwhile, the “Shield of the Arbër-26” exercise marks another step in strengthening Albania’s operational capabilities. It also supports the Armed Forces’ readiness to fulfill national missions and commitments within NATO.

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