MEDIA KIT
for the exercise
“FLASH 26”
initial information on the exercise
Exercise Specifications
NAME: “FLASH 26”
FORMAT: Live field exercise with live-fire activities.
ORGANIZER: Army of the Republic of North Macedonia
EXECUTION PERIOD: 19 – 27 April 2026
LOCATION: ATA “Krivolak” – Republic of North Macedonia
PARTICIPANTS: Army of the Republic of North Macedonia
- Participating contingent: approximately 1,500 members of the Army
- Exercise Director: Operations Command (1st Infantry Brigade, Light Infantry Battalion Group (LIBG))
- Support: (Air Force VING, Military Police Battalion, Signals Battalion, Logistics Base)
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EXERCISE
The exercise “Flash 26” is part of the “Macedonian Flash” exercise series and represents an important step in the development of the operational capabilities of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia. This live tactical exercise, scheduled for 19-27 April 2026, aims to test and evaluate the combat capabilities of the Light Infantry Battalion Group (LIBG), as well as its readiness to execute operational tasks under realistic opposing force conditions. The exercise will be conducted at multiple locations, including ATA “Krivolak”, TC “Pepelishte”, as well as the barracks “Jane Sandanski” in Shtip, “Mirche Acev” in Prilep, and “Strasho Pindzhur” in Petrovec.
As a realistic simulation with opposing forces, the exercise is planned as a live field training event with live-fire activities, conducted under controlled conditions to ensure full supervision and command and control. Its primary objective is to demonstrate and assess the combat readiness of the LIBG, with particular emphasis on executing its primary mission in accordance with NATO standards for evaluating the combat readiness of land commands and units, as part of the verification of its operational capability
Through this exercise, the combat capability of the LIBG will be enhanced. At the same time, the logistical sustainability of the units will be assessed, along with the development and improvement of Tactical and Technical Procedures (TTPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which will be of significant importance for further improving the overall effectiveness.
A key aspect of the exercise is the validation of the command and control structure, including the identification of potential shortcomings and opportunities for improvement. The evaluation and analysis of these elements will contribute to substantial progress in the overall process of operational integration of the units.
The exercise “Flash 26” is an important component of the long-term plan for developing combat readiness and the Army’s ability to adapt and integrate into various scenarios, as well as to test its operational effectiveness in complex and dynamic environments.
EXERCISE OBJECTIVES:
- Evaluate the combat readiness of the LIBG;
- Execute the primary mission of the LIBG, i.e. demonstrate combat readiness in accordance with NATO standards for evaluating the readiness of land commands and units;
- Enhance the combat capability of the LIBG;
- Promote the assessment and evaluation system;
- Review the logistical sustainability of the LIBG;
- Develop and improve TTPs and SOPs of the LIBG;
- Validate the command and control structure and identify improvements and deficiencies.
EXERCISE ELEMENTS:
- The exercise “Flash 26” will significantly contribute to the development and enhancement of the operational capabilities of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia. Important objectives are expected to be achieved, directly influencing combat readiness and unit effectiveness.
- The exercise will enable assessment and verification of the combat readiness of the Light Infantry Battalion Group (LIBG), helping identify weaknesses and areas for improvement.
- The LIBG will improve its performance in complex operational conditions, increasing its ability for rapid and effective crisis response.
- The exercise will enhance SOPs and TTPs, improving coordination and integration among units.
- The exercise will test logistical support capabilities, which are essential for sustaining long-term operations.
- The exercise will test and validate the command and control structure, enabling better integration across operational levels and improved force management.
- The exercise will strengthen international cooperation and the exchange of experience with NATO and partner nations.
- The exercise will contribute to the development of draft national defense and security strategies.
EXERCISE PLANNING PROCESS (OVER 8 MONTHS)
| Time Period | Activity |
| 09–12 Sep 2025 | Exercise Specifications Workshop (Kumanovo, Republic of North Macedonia) |
| 06–10 Oct 2025 | Exercise Plan and Training Objectives Workshop (Shtip, Republic of North Macedonia) |
| 03–07 Nov 2025 | Initial Planning Conference (Shtip, Republic of North Macedonia) |
| 01–05 Dec 2025 | Concept of Operations Development Workshop (Shtip, Republic of North Macedonia) |
| 12–16 Jan 2026 | Main Planning Conference (Shtip, Republic of North Macedonia) |
| 02–06 Mar 2026 | Final Planning Conference (Shtip, Republic of North Macedonia) |
AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT:
Units will use their organic equipment and armament. Key assets include:
- JLTV-series armored vehicles;
- Mi-8/17 transport helicopter;
- BORAN 105 mm howitzer;
- 120 mm mortars.