Kazakhstan Hosts Multinational Military Exercises "Birlestik-2024" in Aktau

The Kazakh city of Aktau in the Mangystau region is the epicenter of a major multinational military exercise, "Birlestik-2024"  ("United-2024").  The opening ceremony, held recently, marked the commencement of the operational and tactical command and staff exercises, which include participation from military personnel of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan.

The exercises, running from July 8 to 17, are being conducted at the Oymasha training ground and near Cape Tokmak. The event will showcase a range of military capabilities and coordination among the participating nations. Approximately 4,000 military personnel and 700 units of weapons and military equipment are involved in this extensive drill.

Key tactical episodes will be demonstrated, featuring groups of ground and air reconnaissance, marine special forces, army and front-line aviation crews, warships and boats, artillery crews, and assault and tank units. This exercise aims to enhance the operational interoperability and tactical skills of the participating forces.

In addition to the military drills, the event includes cultural, leisure, and sports activities. Competitions in military-applied sports, Bagdar tactical orientation, and army tactical shooting are scheduled to take place, promoting camaraderie and mutual understanding among the troops.

The planning for "Birlestik-2024" began earlier this year. On April 4, the defense ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan convened in Aktau to outline the details of the command and staff exercises. This meeting culminated in the signing of a joint plan, underscoring the commitment of these nations to regional security and cooperation.

As the exercises proceed, the participating nations aim to demonstrate their collective strength and readiness to address regional security challenges. The "United-2024" exercises represent a significant step towards fostering military collaboration and strategic partnership in Central Asia.