NOVO SELO, Bulgaria – Military police personnel from eight NATO and partner nations gathered at Novo Selo Training Area on May 13, 2025, to commence Beyond Horizon 2025, a multinational training exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational readiness.
The exercise, hosted by the Bulgarian Military Police Directorate, brings together forces from Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Greece, Italy, North Macedonia, Romania, and Spain. Brig. Gen. Ivaylo Sotirov, Director of the Bulgarian Military Police, officially opened the event, welcoming participants and emphasizing the importance of multinational cooperation in modern military operations.
"This exercise is more than an honor; it's a testament to the willingness of so many nations to collaborate and learn from each other," said Col. Dimitar Dimitrov, Bulgarian Military Police.
The training focuses on a comprehensive range of military police functions, including security operations, detainee handling, and response to improvised explosive devices (IEDs). U.S. Army Soldiers are leading sessions on IED recognition and response tactics, facilitating hands-on scenarios that encourage cross-training and shared learning among participating nations.
Lead Instructor Sgt. Tori Rigney noted the positive reception from international participants. "The Soldiers have been very receptive to our teaching methods, integrating their approaches with ours, demonstrating a strong willingness to learn," Rigney said.
Beyond Horizon 2025 is scheduled to continue through May 21, offering a platform for military police units to refine their skills, strengthen alliances, and enhance their collective ability to respond to global security challenges.
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