Ukrainian Forces in NATO’s Exercise ‘Dynamic Messenger/REPMUS 25’
Overview of the Exercise
In September, NATO conducted the ‘Dynamic Messenger/REPMUS 25’ exercise in Portugal, focusing on robotic experimentation and the integration of maritime unmanned systems. Ukrainian forces played a pivotal role as the simulated ‘red forces’ during this multinational event. Their participation not only added to the realism of the exercise but also fostered knowledge transfer with NATO allies.
Role of Ukrainian Forces
During a media briefing on September 23 in Troia, Portugal, Captain Nuno Palmeiro Ribeiro, the Director of the Portuguese Navy Operational Experimentation Centre, highlighted Ukraine’s leading position in the opposition forces. The exercise featured a scenario in which both blue and red forces were deployed, fostering an environment where outcomes were evaluated by designated umpires.
- Blue Forces: Led by Captain Valter de Bulha Almeida, who commanded Task Group 443.90, the blue forces engaged in various tactical operations.
- Red Forces: Ukrainian troops utilized a diverse array of surface and aerial platforms, demonstrating their operational capabilities and adaptability in a joint exercise setting.
Emphasis on Learning and Development
Captain Almeida stressed the significance of the exercise being geared toward developmental learning rather than merely assessing victory or defeat. He stated that the primary objective was to refine tactics and techniques:
“For me, I’m more interested in developing the tactics and techniques, and we are learning a lot from the Ukrainian participation,” said Almeida.
This sentiment underscores the exercise’s focus on operational enhancement, encouraging all participants to document and replicate experiences to facilitate future training.
Takeaways and Strategic Implications
The collaboration with Ukrainian forces in a NATO context highlights several critical considerations for defense professionals:
- Enhanced Tactical Integration: The introduction of diverse assets from Ukraine into NATO exercises serves to broaden the tactical repertoire of allied forces.
- Learning Culture: Creating a robust environment for learning emerges as a fundamental takeaway, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation and evolution of military strategies.
- Realistic Simulations: The use of red and blue force dynamics contributes to a more authentic training experience, critical for preparing forces for real-world contingencies.
As NATO continues to adapt to modern warfare, exercises like ‘Dynamic Messenger/REPMUS 25’ demonstrate the importance of multinational collaboration and the incorporation of lessons from active conflict zones into broader strategic frameworks.
