Operation eVA: Change of Command in Hungary between the Folgore Paratroopers and the Aosta Brigade

In a solemn international context, the paratroopers of the Folgore Paratroopers Brigade handed over the command of the Italian contingent in Hungary to the “Aosta” Brigade. This handover marks the end of six months of Italian command within the NATO mission “eVA-enhanced Vigilance Activity”, under the leadership of the 183rd Paratroopers Regiment “Nembo” of Pistoia.

The change of command ceremony, presided over by Division Admiral Valter Zappellini, Chief of Staff of the Joint Operational Command, was attended by numerous civil and military authorities, both Italian and Hungarian, highlighting the importance of this mission for international security and cooperation.

The eVA operation, which extends along the entire eastern flank of NATO, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, aims to strengthen the deterrence posture of the Atlantic Alliance in the face of potential threats. During its mandate, the “Folgore” Brigade demonstrated exceptional operational capabilities, conducting nearly 200 training and exercise activities, many of which involved live fire, in close cooperation with the Hungarian, American, Croatian, and Turkish contingents present at Camp Croft.

A particularly significant moment was the Battlegroup Adaptive Hussars exercise, which highlighted the multinational operational capability of the Italian contingent. For the first time in international Battlegroup exercises, the Folgore paratroopers performed a tactical airdrop, once again demonstrating their high level of preparation and professionalism, emphasizing the crucial role of airborne troops in NATO's collective defense strategy.

The commitment of the Italian paratroopers was also recognized by the Hungarian military authorities, who awarded Lieutenant Colonel Salvatore Sotgiu, outgoing Commander, and Lieutenant Colonel Andrea Checcucci, Chief of Staff of the eVA Battlegroup, the Hungarian medal “Honours for the Partnership”.

The “Folgore” Paratroopers Brigade leaves command after having significantly contributed to the NATO mission, strengthening relations between Italy and Hungary and among allied forces. Admiral Zappellini highlighted the excellent work done by the paratroopers, confirming their professionalism and ability to operate effectively in a multinational context.

A fundamental aspect of the eVA operation, deserving particular recognition, is the logistical effort made by the IT-NSE (Italian National Support Element). This component, dedicated to logistical support, played a crucial role in the realization and maintenance of field infrastructures, essential for the daily well-being and operational effectiveness of the contingent. The IT-NSE personnel distinguished themselves not only in the management of living and operational structures but also in the maintenance of over 100 combat vehicles of various types, ensuring that the forces in the field could rely on equipment and vehicles always efficient and ready for use.

This behind-the-scenes commitment allowed the paratroopers of the “Folgore” Brigade and will continue with their successors of the “Aosta” Brigade to operate in optimal conditions, confirming the importance of effective logistical support in modern military operations. The IT-NSE demonstrated that the success of a mission depends not only on the skill and courage of the soldiers on the front line but also on the relentless support work that ensures their operability.