From 2 to 6 March, 2026, the “Jane Sandanski” barracks in Shtip hosted the Final Coordination Conference (FCC) for the exercise “Flash 26″ (F26). This served as the final and crucial phase of the overall planning process for the upcoming national exercise.
The Final Coordination Conference represents the concluding step in the preparations for the exercise. During the exercise, the Light Infantry Battalion Group (LIBG), as a NATO-declared unit, will demonstrate its operational readiness and capability to execute assigned tasks in accordance with established NATO Alliance standards.
At the opening of the conference, it was emphasized that the successful implementation of “Flash 26” is the result of a months-long, systematic, and coordinated planning process involving all task holders. Emphasis was placed on the importance of full synchronization between the planning team, the evaluation team, and the Higher Command team to create a realistic, dynamic, and sustainable operational environment.
The following activities were conducted during the Five-Day Conference:
- Finalizing and aligning the organizational and operational orders, including all attachments and annexes.
- Confirming the main events list and main incidents list (MEL/MIL) to ensure a realistic scenario.
- Defining the final list of participants along with their specific tasks, responsibilities, and deadlines.
- Specifying logistical requirements, including transport, medical support, and material-technical resources.
- Finalizing the communications plan and security procedures.
- Coordinating and integrating activities with the evaluation team and the Higher Command team to ensure objective and comprehensive assessment.
Final coordination was also conducted regarding activities to be carried out at the Army Training Area “Krivolak” and the Training Center “Pepelishte”, confirming that all conditions are met for the smooth and safe execution of planned activities.
The end of the Final Planning Conference means official completion of the planning cycle for exercise “Flash 26”. The confirmed documents, conclusions, and guidelines provide a solid and functional base for the successful realization of the exercise, with the clear goal of advancing and verifying the combat readiness of the LIBG according to the highest standards.
