23.12.2021.
Minister Stefanović with members of 1st Army Brigade in Sremska Mitrovica
Today, after visiting the 1st Army Brigade units in the "Boško Palkovljević Pinki" barracks in Sremska Mitrovica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Nebojša Stefanović, PhD, said that our crews’ level of training assures him that the First Brigade and the entire Army take their role as the most effective military force in this part of Europe very seriously.
He underlined the importance of the modernized М-17 “Oganj“ multiple rocket launcher, which is the product of domestic intelligence and is used by the 13th MLRS Division. On the outside, this system resembles the one used by the Yugoslav People’s Army. However, it is far more efficient, because it can deliver fire on a target in just three minutes instead of 20, i.e. it can fire twice in seven minutes. - We've had the opportunity to see what it means to have a well-trained crew, a good command and, of course, equipment, relying on our resources, domestic intelligence and the equipment we manufacture in our country. Our tankers reached the semi-finals at the International Tank Biathlon in Russia this year, which is tremendous success, considering how fierce and strong competitors were, which speaks volumes about their abilities - Stefanović noted, after the demonstration of training conducted by part of the 15th Tank and 16th Mechanized Battalions.
He emphasized that we will continue to modernize our armed forces.
- We want to invest more, and thanks to President Vučić, we have been allocated funds. We want to thank the armed forces personnel, who have dedicated their lives to Serbia, by investing in them, in new uniforms and new equipment. I am glad I’ve had the opportunity to talk to every soldier today and to hear firsthand what their expectations are. It is important to us that, in addition to the equipment and improved facilities, all service members are satisfied with the care received. We want these people to see that their country is making progress, and that this is reflected in their standard of living, salary and everything else - said the Minister.He wished members of the Sremska Mitrovica garrison all the best for the upcoming holidays.
- Spend your holiday season with your families, and may we always be ready, and never be forced to react – the Minister of Defence said.
During today's visit, Minister Stefanović was accompanied by Deputy Chief of the Serbian Armed Forces General Staff, Lieutenant General Petar Cvetković, Chief of Staff of the Army Command, Brigadier General Željko Tramošljika, and Colonel Dragan Radaković, Chief of Staff of the First Army Brigade.
The 13th MLRS Division’s M-17 Oganj crew demonstrated delivering indirect fire, and members of the 15th Tank Battalion’s M-84 tank crew demonstrated performing tasks in various tactical situations. Minister Stefanović was also introduced to a segment of gunner training using the simulator and the training system for target acquisition and engagement with M-84 tank.