IMS Press Release 18-Apr-2001

Exercise Ardent Ground 2001 3000 Alliance Soldiers Practise their Skills in a Live Joint Exercise Exercise Ardent Ground is the NATO's Supreme European Commander's annual live firing exercise to train one of his Immediate Reaction Force, equipped for deployment across the full spectrum of operations from humanitarian assistance through peace support operations and crisis response. Initial elements of this force, [Allied Mobile Force (land)], can mobilise within 72 hours, with the remaining force, equipment and supplies capable of deployment in thirteen days. The exercise will take place in western Poland from 28 April to 24 May 2001. Approximately 3000 military personnel will participate from Belgium, the Czech republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Host nation support will be provided by the polish armed forces. The aim of the exercise is to deploy and exercise this force in joint live firing and air operations, including a joint air attack team. Seven artillery batteries, five mortar platoons, fixed wing aircraft and helicopters plus associated supporting elements will take part. Ardent ground gives a strong signal of NATO's resolve and solidarity as the contributing nations work together in a multinational, integrated force with common procedures and shared logistic support.