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Austrian Armed Forces
Austria Deploys 50th Contingent to Kosovo for Peacekeeping
The Austrian Armed Forces are continuing their long-standing commitment to peace and security in Kosovo. At the beginning of April, the 50th contingent of Austrian troops will be deployed to the KFOR mission. This mission, in which Austria has been involved since 1999, will now be continued under the leadership of Colonel Bernhard Gruber of the General Staff Service, who will assume responsibility for around 190 soldiers.
April 8, 2024
Six Decades in the Service of Peace: Austria Celebrates 60 Years of UNFICYP Deployment in Cyprus
Austria's involvement in the "United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus" (UNFICYP) marks an important anniversary this year: the Alpine Republic has been supporting the peacekeeping mission on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus for sixty years. A look back at the beginnings in April 1964 shows the deployment of a field hospital with 55 men following the unanimous adoption of Resolution 186 by the UN Security Council in March of the same year.
March 10, 2024
Increased Security Cooperation Between Austria and Romania
In a sign of solidarity and joint commitment to peace and security in Europe, Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner received her Romanian counterpart Angel Tîlvăr for bilateral talks in Vienna.
February 25, 2024
Austrian International Military Cooperation in Jordan: Focus on Gender Issues
The Austrian Armed Forces, in cooperation with the armed forces from the Netherlands and Canada and the organization "UN-Women", have launched the first "Advanced Gender Focal Point Course" in Amman, Jordan.
February 17, 2024
Austria's Army is Gearing Up: Large-Scale Investment in Wheeled Tanks, Helicopters and Aircraft
The Austrian Armed Forces is facing a significant expansion of its vehicle fleet and aircraft fleet. The Ministry of Defense under department head Klaudia Tanner had already planned and made several new purchases since 2021.
February 13, 2024
Austria's Ministry of Defense Warns of Global Risks
In a time of global uncertainty, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defense has presented the "Risikobild 2024 - World out of joint". The presentation at the Raiffeisen Forum, led by Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, aimed to shed light on the security policy challenges at the national and international level for the coming twelve to 18 months.
January 29, 2024
International Flair at the 75th Officers' Ball in Vienna
The Officers' Ball in Vienna attracted not only local guests but also an impressive number of international guests, underlining the importance of the event in the diplomatic calendar.
January 24, 2024
Increased Military Cooperation Between Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina
Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner met her Bosnian counterpart Zukan Helez in Bosnia and Herzegovina for bilateral talks. This meeting, which was part of Tanner's troop visits to the Western Balkans, was aimed at deepening relations between the two countries and further developing existing cooperation.
December 12, 2023
Austria's Air Defense in Transition: The Importance of 'Sky Shield'
At a time of growing global uncertainties and threats, Austria's air defense capability is coming into focus. With the implementation of the "Sky Shield" program, Austria is facing up to the challenges of the 21st century, emphasizes Brigadier Gerfried Promberger, Commander of the Austrian Armed Forces Air Forces.
December 11, 2023
Austrian Politics Between Neutrality and Security Policy
A heated political climate is currently shaping the political debate in Austria, where the FPÖ and other political groups in parliament are debating the issues of neutrality, security policy, and the right approach to current crises.
October 31, 2023
Austrian Blue Helmet Forum and Association of Austrian Peacekeepers
The significant gathering of civilian and military experts at the "Blue Helmet Forum" hosted by the "Association of Austrian Peacekeepers" at the National Defense Academy showcased Austria's international commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
October 30, 2023
Austria's Commitment to International Peace Missions Remains Upright
On National Day, the Council of Ministers announced an important decision: The foreign deployments of the Austrian Armed Forces will be further extended. With this decision, Austria underscores its commitment to stability, security, and peace in various crisis regions around the globe.
October 29, 2023
Austria's National Day: A Look Back and an Appeal for the Future
On October 26, Austria celebrates its National Day, a date deeply rooted in the country's history and at the same time an opportunity to look to the future. The day marks the anniversary of the proclamation of perpetual neutrality in 1955, a pivotal moment in Austria's postwar history. But what does this day mean to the people of Austria and how does it connect to the challenges of the present?
October 26, 2023
Evacuation Flight for Austrians from Israel: Austrian Government and Armed Forces Respond to Security Situation
Due to the ongoing tense security situation in Israel, which has led to numerous airlines suspending their connections to the country, the Austrian government has decided to take evacuation measures for its citizens.
October 10, 2023
Austria's Air Future: Embraer's C-390 Set to Replace the Stalwart C-130
In a landmark decision, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, flanked by National Armaments Director Major General Harald Vodosek, announced the intended replacement for the Austrian Armed Forces' reliable yet aging C-130 "Hercules": the Embraer C-390.
September 20, 2023
Austrian Armed Forces Continue to Provide Protection for Embassies in Vienna
To support the police and secure embassies and other critical objects in Vienna, the Austrian Armed Forces have extended the duration of their assistance mission until March 31, 2024.
September 17, 2023
Austrian Army Modernizes its Tank Fleet in Germany
In the presence of the Minister of Defense, Klaudia Tanner the first "Leopard" main battle tank from Wels was handed over to the European armaments company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Defence Systems (KNDS). The aim of this initiative is to modernize the tank so that it meets current technological and military requirements.
September 11, 2023
U.S. Embassy and Austrian Armed Forces Celebrate Anniversary of State Partnership Program
The one-year anniversary of the "State Partnership Program" between the "Vermont Air National Guard" and the Austrian Armed Forces under the leadership of Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner was celebrated in Zeltweg. High-ranking guests such as the Ambassador of the United States in Austria, Victoria Reggie Kennedy, as well as Brigadier General Henry Harder, Commander of the "Vermont Air National Guard", were present at a festive ceremony. Within the framework of this partnership, the 158th Fighter Wing of the Vermont Air National Guard and the Austrian Air Force are conducting joint flight exercises for the first time.
June 18, 2023
Austria Plans Participation in NATO Training Mission in Iraq
Austria plans to participate in NATO's training and advisory mission in Iraq (NMI) with up to ten members of the Austrian Armed Forces. This was decided by the Council of Ministers at the request of Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg in agreement with Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner.
June 14, 2023
Cooperation Between Austria and Greece to Address Illegal Migration as a Hybrid Threat
The signing of the "Vienna Declaration" took place at the Ministry of Defense in Vienna. Dr. Arnold Kammel, Secretary General and Defense Policy Director of the Austrian Ministry of Defense, and Dr. Konstantinos Balomenos, Defense Policy Director of Greece, signed the declaration in the presence of the Greek Ambassador in Vienna, H.E. Catherine Koika.
June 5, 2023
NATO Boosts Security Measures in Kosovo, Backed by Austrian Armed Forces
Following violent protests in northern Kosovo, NATO is reinforcing the international protection force KFOR there. The Austrian Armed Forces are now also increasing troop protection in northern Kosovo.
May 30, 2023
International Soldiers' Pilgrimage to Lourdes: Austrian Military Delegation for Peace
The 63rd International Soldiers' Pilgrimage to Lourdes is taking place under the motto "Let us build a church here". An Austrian delegation led by Military Bishop Werner Freistetter traveled to France with 289 pilgrims.
May 21, 2023
Austrian Armed Forces in Global NATO Cyber Drill "Locked Shields 23"
This year, an Austrian team is once again taking part in NATO's largest military cyber defense exercise. The specialists will practice protecting information and communication technology systems and critical infrastructures against cyber attacks.
April 24, 2023
French Order Awarded to Austrian General Robert Brieger
French Ambassador to Austria Gilles Pécout awarded Austria's General and Chairman of the European Union Military Committee Robert Brieger the Commander's Badge of the French Legion of Honor on behalf of the French President at a ceremony Tuesday at the French Embassy in Vienna.
April 18, 2023
Austrian Armed Forces Celebrate 20th Anniversary of its C-130 "Hercules
Almost exactly 20 years ago, the first of three C-130 "Hercules" landed in Austria on March 20, 2003. This marked the beginning of a new era in military aviation for the Austrian Armed Forces. This was now honored in a military ceremony.
March 26, 2023
Austria Before Participation in European Initiative "Sky Shield"
Austria has taken a big step towards participating in the "Sky Shield" initiative, in other words, the joint planned air defense system of European countries. Austria is thus participating more strongly in an all-European defense.
March 21, 2023
Austrian Armed Forces Receive International Award for Airshow "AirPower22"
For the 10th time, AirPower22 took place at Fliegerhorst Hinterstoisser in Zeltweg on 02 and 03 September 2022 under the motto "Above the clouds!". Austria's famous airshow has now been awarded the prestigious "The Paul Bowen Award of Achievement" by the European Airshow Council as the best international airshow of the year 2022 at the European Airshow Council Convention in Brussels.
March 12, 2023
Austrian Security Policy Handbook Presented in Japan
To increase knowledge of the European Union's Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) and thus lay the groundwork for cooperation, the Austrian Common Security and Defense Policy Handbook was translated into several Asian languages. This handbook has now been presented in Japan.
February 15, 2023
Austria Supports Earthquake Victims in Turkish-Syrian Border Area
The devastating earthquake in Türkiye and Syria left devastation and over 6000 people dead. The search for survivors in the rubble continues, among other things with numerous international aid. Austria is also sending aid with 82 soldiers and 3 million euros from the Foreign Disaster Fund (AKF) for relief organizations. NGOs in Vienna, meanwhile, are asking for monetary donations.
February 7, 2023
Austria Helps Secure Airspace for World Economic Forum in Davos
Davos, Switzerland, which is located close to the Austrian border, will once again host the World Economic Forum. The Austrian Armed Forces are helping Switzerland with air surveillance on Austrian territory.
January 16, 2023
Opening of the Salzburg Festival: "Culture as a Counter Model to Barbarism"
The Salzburg Festival has been ceremoniously opened. In addition to rousing speakers such as author Ilija Trojanow and Festival President Kristina Hammer, the Austrian Federal President also appealed to the unity of Europe.
July 27, 2022
Vermont National Guard Signs Cooperation Agreement with Austrian Armed Forces
In Vienna, Austria's Minister of Defence Klaudia Tanner signed the "State Partnership Program", which facilitates the exchange of knowledge, skills, and experiences between the US and Austrian armies.
July 20, 2022
Weekly Briefing: Newest Developments in Diplomacy and Vienna
Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria. The Georgian Prime Minister visited Austria and Vienna enables Ukrainian displaced persons to graduate from Ukrainian high school. In addition, Austria's Chancellor visited Israel and concluded an important agreement there. Furthermore, expats in Austria appreciate the high quality of life, but do not feel welcome. Read more about this week's developments.
July 14, 2022
Austrian Chancellor Visits Israel: "Possible Partner for Future Gas Purchases"
Austria's Chancellor travelled to Israel this week to meet with Israel's Prime Minister Yair Lapid. During his visit, the Chancellor expressed interest in Israel's weapons technology and future gas supplies. Besides signing a strategic partnership, Nehammer also visited the Holocaust memorial Yad Vashem.
July 13, 2022
Strategic Assistance for Western Balkan Countries: "Regional Strategic Leadership Course" in Austria
As part of the "Regional Strategic Leadership Course," high-ranking civilian and military leaders met in Austria in early June to receive joint training in strategic decision-making. The first module of the first-ever course was held at the National Defense Academy in Vienna.
June 8, 2022
Austrian Armed Forces Exercising and Training Abroad
The Austrian Armed Forces' exercise and training plan for 2022 will enable Austrian troops to train aboard and conduct exercises with the militaries of partnering countries. With the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Austria is strengthening its military cooperation with Western partners and exercises will be conducted within the framework of international organizations, the European Union, multilateral cooperation, and NATO's "Partnership for Peace."
June 1, 2022
Planning Conference for EU Battlegroup 2025 in Vienna: Strengthening the EU's Common Security and Defense Policy
This week, representatives of ten EU states met at the planning conference for the EU Battlegroup 2025 in Vienna. The aim was to coordinate jointly in the future and to participate with military forces in the new intervention force. Participants included Germany, the Netherlands, Hungary and Croatia. The aim of the conference is to coordinate international cooperation and plan joint exercises.
May 27, 2022
Putin's Aggression Against Ukraine as a Trigger for the Flare-up of the Austrian Neutrality Debate
Russia's fabricated pretext for war, Russian use of disinformation to distract and deflect responsibility and eventually Russia's invasion of Ukraine could become the turning point for Austria's security policy. Parliamentary groups discussed Austria's position in the field of tension between neutrality, NATO accession and the EU army.
March 23, 2022
Military Surveillance of 50 Embassies in Vienna Still Required
The Austrian Council of Ministers has extended the cooperation between the military and the police for protecting the embassies in Vienna to help relieve the police during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about the cooperation and what Austrian Interior Minister Nehammer and Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner said about its extension.
October 4, 2021
Covid-19: Austria Offers Admission of Portuguese Patients
To alleviate the current health crisis in Portugal, Austria accepted to admit ten patients that will be treated in Vienna and other provinces. Due to the slightly improved situation in Austrian intensive care units, the Portuguese Covid-19 patients and other patients with serious illnesses will be transfered to hospital in Austria.
February 5, 2021
Vienna Prepares for Second Mass Testing
Vienna's residents can have themselves tested once again during the period from January 8 to January 17. The tests will be conducted at the same three locations like during the first mass testing. Although the city prepares capacities for up to 900,000 people, registration for an appointment is required.
January 7, 2021
Vienna Prepares for Mass Testing
The City of Vienna prepares to test its population for Covid-19. The responsible city departments, emergency organizations, and the Austrain Armed Forces have taken measures to provide test capacities for the period from December 4 to December 13. Within this period, every Viennese resident above the age of 10 is eligible for testing.
November 30, 2020
Austrian Armed Forces Will Control Embassies
The Austrian Armed Forces will once again assist the Vienna State Police with the protection and surveillance of embassies. This will allow the executive forces to intensify their operations against Covid-19, while the Armed Forces will take over embassy protection.
September 23, 2020
First Suspected Case of Coronavirus in Upper Austria: All-Clear
A suspected case of coronavirus occurred today in the Upper Austrian city of Linz. The all-clear was given in the late afternoon. The tests for COVID-19 were negative.
February 25, 2020 · Updated: February 25, 2020; 17:20
Austria Reports Its First Two Coronavirus Cases as Outbreak Widens
In the Austrian province of Tyrol, two people have been proven to be infected with the coronavirus. A second test was also positive. These are the first two confirmed cases in Austria. The infected persons are two 24-year-old Italians from Lombardy who live in the Tyrolean capital Innsbruck.
February 25, 2020 · Updated: February 25, 2020; 14:25
Coronavirus: Emergency Meeting of Central European Health Ministers in Rome
At the invitation of the Italian Government, the Health Ministers of Austria, Italy, Slovenia, France, Switzerland and Germany are meeting today.
February 25, 2020
Austria is Arming itself against the Coronavirus
The Austrian Federal Government today presented a package of measures against "all" upcoming scenarios, with the aim of ensuring transparency, information and protection for the population. The next 2 to 3 weeks will be decisive in determining how the coronavirus situation develops.
February 24, 2020
Russian Espionage Incident in the Austrian Armed Forces
A colonel of the Austrian Armed Forces is suspected of having worked for decades with a Russian intelligence service. Foreign Minister Kneissl quoted the Russian chargé d'affaires to the Foreign Ministry and cancelled her planned trip to Russia.
November 9, 2018
What Do You Know About the Austrian National Day?
The Austrian National Day (Nationalfeiertag) has been celebrated annually since 1965 on 26 October, the day on which the decided Austrian neutrality came into force in 1955 and the last occupying powers left Austria. The Parliament, the Office of the Federal President, the Federal Chancellery, the Foreign Ministry, etc. invite the public to the Open Day, which - this year - is dedicated to the commemoration year 1918. The public is invited to contribute their ideas. Take the chance to get to know Austria!
October 25, 2018
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