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RAMSTEIN, Germany – The Croatian Armed Forces hosted the 35th iteration of the live-fire air defence exercise Shield 2023, April 13 to 22,  2023.

This year's exercise included participation of Alliance Surface Based Air Defence units from Croatia, Slovenia, France, Poland and the USA. The exercise was designed to improve interoperability and train NATO tactics, techniques and procedures enhancing units' ability to counter threats at low to medium levels.

Exercises like this are valuable training as part of NATO’s wider Integrated Air and Missile Defence system. Croatian Armed Forces 

This year's exercise included participation of Alliance Surface Based Air Defence units from Croatia, Slovenia, France, Poland and the USA. Photo courtesy Croatian Armed Forces

The units had the opportunity to test counter UAV systems. Photo courtesy Croatian Armed Forces

Taking place in Pula, Croatia around 300 personnel participated, and units were able to conduct live-firing with missile and anti-aircraft artillery systems. The units also had the opportunity to test counter-UAV systems and capabilities. In the modern operating environment, UAVs are seen as an increasing threat.

Exercises like this are valuable training as part of NATO’s wider Integrated Air and Missile Defence system which is conducted using a 360-degree approach across NATO territory and is prepared to address the full spectrum of threats. It is a collaborative effort and a key pillar of NATO’s collective defence demonstrating Allied unity and cohesion.