04 Feb. 2010
Improved security situation is directly related to positive changes that the people and institutions in Kosovo are making every day. The recent elections were successfully run by institutions in Kosovo and the post-election issues have been handled in a democratic manner. These positive changes taking place across Kosovo have allowed KFOR to reshape and adapt to the improving security situation under “Deterrent Presence” plan.
“We had to adjust to the situation at hand. Looking back, I think we had almost 60 000 soldiers here, and now, we are about 10 000. What is the reason for this adaption? We achieved a lot and the security situation has been improved!” These were the words used by Lieutenant General Markus Bentler, Commander of KFOR, to explain the decision to adjust the KFOR presence in Kosovo.
Lieutenant General Markus Bentler underlined that with the new mission-tailored Multinational Battle Group (MNBG) structures we will “(…) strengthen our ability to detect, deter and respond decisively to any threat to our mission”.
A Battle Group is a military organization on the level of a battalion, consisting of numerous companies. These companies are highly mobile, extremely flexible and rapid deployable to potential trouble spots all over Kosovo. Ready to react to any situation threatening the security in Kosovo KFOR will use these agile and flexible troops to maintain a safe and secure environment. The name “Battle Group” does not refer to a fighting mission, but reflects standard NATO terminology in regard to its structure of forces. These changes are not in response to, nor in preparation for, any ongoing or expected situation in Kosovo.
Several Field Exercises have been conducted during the last weeks in order to train the newly structured troops to maintain a safe and secure environment in case of necessity.
The transition to a Deterrent Presence Force does not change the aim of KFOR’s mission. The primary mission of KFOR will not change: it is to maintain a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all people in Kosovo.
KFOR continues to ensure a safe and secure environment under UNSC Resolution 1244.
Story and photos by KFOR HQ Public Affairs Office
