From 22 February to 18 March 2025, one of the most important allied exercises – Allied Spirit 25 – is taking place at the Hohenfels Training Area in Germany. This exercise, conducted under the command of the U.S. 7th Army Training Command and the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC), has been helping to standardize allied military practices for several years. Unlike other NATO-led exercises, which are primarily dominated by U.S. forces, Allied Spirit focuses on the execution of the exercise by an allied country. This year, the Griffin Mechanized Infantry Brigade from Lithuania has taken on that role as the primary training unit.

Almost 3,000 soldiers from various countries - Austria, France, Hungary, Italy, Spain, Latvia, Lithuania, Northern Macedonia, Slovakia, Slovenia and the Czech Republic - took part in the exercise. The main objective of the exercise was to strengthen combat cooperation and to test interoperability, which is simply the ability to link together to ensure a smooth flow of information and effective command across all units regardless of nationality. Essentially, the exercise demonstrated unified command, control and coordination in an international environment during the deployment of NATO forces under Article 5 activation.

A key role in the exercise was played by the Czech 7th Brigade Task Force (7BTU) with the 74th Mechanised Battalion from Bučovice. This unit performed combat tasks within the framework of the so-called LIVEX (live exercise), while the brigade command worked in parallel at the staff management level within the framework of the computer-assisted exercise (CAX), simulating decision-making processes at a higher command level. The exercise was attended by all pre-designated members of the 7th Brigade Task Force and the University of Defence, in total about 400 soldiers and 50 pieces of ground equipment from the Czech Republic.

Commander of the 7th Mechanised Brigade Brigadier General Zdeněk Mikula described the importance of the exercise as follows, "Allied Spirit 25 is an opportunity to test our capabilities in an international environment. We are adapting to the current challenges of a changing battlefield. We are showing that we are a solid part of the Allied forces and we are able to withstand even the most difficult conditions."

The proving ground of the modern battlefield

The exercise focuses on the realism of combat, which is ensured by systems such as MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System), which simulates every shot, decision and loss, forcing units to adapt to the dynamic situation. The system allows participants to simulated fire at targets and record hits and damage, providing realistic combat feedback. And how does it work in practice? Laser transmitters and receivers are placed on soldiers' vehicles and equipment. During simulated firing, the laser device emits a signal that is picked up by a receiver on the target vehicle or person. The system then records the hit and informs the participants of the outcome, which can influence the next steps in the simulation (e.g., damage to equipment, injuries to soldiers, etc.).

Lieutenant Colonel Martin Krč, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations of the 7th Mechanised Brigade, evaluated the Allied Spirit 25 exercise as follows, "The exercise is not only a test of individual abilities, but also a test of the ability to function in a coalition group, to communicate effectively and to react to changes in the situation."

Individual scenarios included dynamic tactical activities, fighting in a stalled area, night movements and coordination with air support. The exercise also included simulations of cyber attacks, communications jamming and asymmetric warfare.

Mechanised battalion in action

Units of the 74th Mechanized Battalion, operating in an allied group during the exercise, had to adapt quickly to allied command and communications systems. "The biggest challenge was connecting to the allied command and control systems. We had to quickly orient ourselves to the partners' communication and internal procedures," explains Captain Roman B. from the deployed unit.

During the exercise, the units also had to deal with OPFOR (opposing force) units, simulated electronic warfare, ambushes and logistics disruption. "Every day we face new challenges - from simulated attacks to working with other units. Sharing experiences pushes our capabilities," said Capt.

Cooperation with NATO partners

One of the main objectives of the Allied Spirit exercise was to test interoperability within NATO, with the 7th Mechanised Brigade coordinating operations with US, British, German, Polish and Romanian units, sharing operational procedures and using Allied reconnaissance drones and air support.

"Each participation in these exercises enhances the ability of NATO nations to work together in a complex multi-domain environment. Czech soldiers are thus actively contributing to the development of planning and tactical procedures within the Alliance," Brigadier General Mikula stressed the importance of the exercise.

Lessons learned from Allied Spirit 25

The exercise highlighted several important factors, such as the importance of electronic warfare and cyber threats, the need to align mechanized units with artillery and drones, adaptability and flexible command, and improving overall interoperability with allied partners. The exercise also confirmed that the 7th Mechanised Brigade is a reliable NATO partner that is ready for modern conflicts. "It was a tough test, but we passed. We are fully capable of fighting alongside our allies," said Lt. Col.