U.S. Army Europe, allies and partnered armed forces are developing the readiness and interoperability of their troops through exercise Immediate Response 19, from May 10 through June 7, 2019, in various locations throughout Croatia, Slovenia and Hungary. IR 19 events include air assaults, medical training and the establishment and integration of a multinational battalion with forces from several nations.
Immediate Response 19 promotes regional stability and security, while strengthening partner capabilities and fostering trust. The combined training provides opportunities to improve interoperability among participating allies and regional partners.
During the first two days of IR 19, U.S. Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) participated in medical training, live fire exercises and a joint forcible entry.
1st BN got the chance to work with the new Army Ground Mobility Vehicle (AGMV), which is an airborne tactical vehicle.
“This light-weight combat vehicle is meant to be air-dropped into combat,” said Sgt. Matthew Holtz, a medic with Attack Company. “It can hold nine passengers, roughly a squad-sized element.”
“With this vehicle, a Soldier can get to the fight and still have plenty of energy,” said 1st Sgt. Jeremy Lemma, Attack Company 1st Sgt., 1-503rd PIR.
A common theme he has seen in rotational exercises is the amount of walking. According to Holtz, this vehicle “changes the game for him and his company.”
The AGMVs will be rotated between the three companies of 1st Bn so more Soldiers get to experience this new technology
Interoperability within a multinational training exercise is not only about working together through combat training, but also through technology and equipment. The use of MILES gear and the new AGMV helps increase readiness within U.S., allied and partnered armed forces.