The Ministry of Defence announced that the multinational reserve exercise Moonstar 2025 officially began on Monday at the Vay Ádám Training Base in Hajdúhadház. Running from 10–23 November, the exercise includes live-fire combat training with the participation of approximately 150 reservists from Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, joined by observers from Slovenia and Croatia.
According to the ministry’s statement, the exercise aims to strengthen cooperation among reserve units, assess the readiness and capabilities of soldiers, and allow participants to familiarize themselves with other nations’ operational procedures. Troops will practice navigating difficult terrain, securing base areas, and defending patrol bases.
Training tasks also include live shooting with various weapons, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) drills, and the professional use of Carl Gustaf grenade launchers.
Brigadier General László Drót, Commander of the Hungarian Defence Forces Territorial Defence and Recruitment Command, highlighted the importance of international cooperation for territorial defence units: ‘The structure of Hungary’s territorial defence system, including the integration of reservists, serves as a model in our region. Our achievements are remarkable and have earned international recognition.’
The Polish and Slovak reserve units continue long-term joint training efforts, while Slovenian and Croatian observers are studying Hungary’s approach to integrating reservists into national defence.
The statement emphasized that Hungary’s reserve system is a vital pillar of its defence capabilities, as reservists actively contribute to national security alongside their civilian careers. Such exercises not only enhance combat readiness but also foster camaraderie and teamwork among participants.
Thanks to the ‘I Love, I Protect’ recruitment campaign, more than 7,000 new reservists have joined the Hungarian Defence Forces since last summer. Following their participation in the Adaptive Hussars 2025 drills, they now have another opportunity to demonstrate their commitment and skills during Moonstar 2025.
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