QR 2026

EUFOR’s Annual Quick Response Exercise

EUFOR’s annual exercise Quick Response 2026 will take place from 22nd August to 03rd September 2026 across Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The exercise will bring together military personnel from multiple contributing nations to demonstrate EUFOR’s readiness, interoperability, and ability to rapidly reinforce its presence in support of a Safe and Secure Environment (SASE) for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As part of the exercise, EUFOR will temporarily increase its troop presence through the deployment troops of Reserve Forces, with troops and military assets from contributing nations such as Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, and Romania participating. Citizens may observe an increased military presence, including patrols, vehicle movements, helicopter activities, and training events in selected urban and rural locations.

The exercise will be conducted in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AF BiH), local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and communities throughout the country.

Quick Response 2026 demonstrates the continued commitment to peace, stability, and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as EUFOR’s ability to respond rapidly and effectively whenever required.

What is Quick Response?
Quick Response is a planned multinational military exercise organized by EUFOR in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is held every year to test and improve the ability of EUFOR and partner nations to deploy quickly, work together, and support the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in keeping the country safe and secure.
Why is the exercise happening in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is the host nation for EUFOR Operation Althea. The exercise helps ensure that, if needed, EUFOR can respond quickly anywhere in the country. It also shows the international community has continued commitment to maintaining peace and stability here.
Is this exercise a reaction to a current situation?
No. Quick Response is a regular, pre-planned training activity that happens every year. It is not linked to any specific incident. Its purpose is to maintain readiness and demonstrate the ability to act quickly if the situation ever requires it.
Who will take part in the exercise?
Quick Response 2026 involves EUFOR troops from 24 troop contributing nations who are currently deployed in-theatre. These forces will be temporarily augmented by reserve units from Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, and Romania. The reserve forces will deploy both personal and associated military equipment including aviation assets.
How long will the exercise last and where more specifically?
Quick Response 2026 will run for approximately 2 weeks, from 22 August to 3 September 2026. The troop movements and other military activities will cover specific areas across Bosnia and Herzegovina, and will be most visible in and around Sarajevo, Mostar, Bijeljina, Višegrad, Trebinje, Čapljina, Drvar, Laktaši, Livno, Manjača, Krčmarice, Rudo, Tuzla, Prijedor and Klobuk border crossings. Movements of troops and equipment will happen for the entire duration of the Quick Response 2026.
Will the exercise cause disruptions to traffic or daily life?
Some temporary road closures or traffic delays may occur in certain locations when military convoys are moving. These will be announced in advance through local media, social networks, and municipal authorities. EUFOR will do everything possible to keep disruption to a minimum.
Will there be noise from aircraft, vehicles or weapons?
Some training will involve helicopters and military vehicles, including armored vehicles, which may create noise. In designated training areas, there may also be controlled use of blank ammunition to simulate realistic conditions. No live ammunition will be used in populated areas.
Will soldiers be present in towns and villages?
Yes, troops may be seen moving through or near communities as part of deployment drills. They will always be accompanied by liaison teams and will behave respectfully towards the local population.
Will this exercise affect public services?
No essential public services will be disrupted. EUFOR coordinates closely with local authorities to avoid interference with schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure.
Is the exercise dangerous for civilians?
No. All activities are planned with strict safety measures. Exercises are held in controlled environments, and all soldiers are trained to operate safely around civilians.
Will soldiers carry weapons?
Yes, soldiers will carry their standard military equipment during the exercise. However, strict safety protocols are followed, and no live ammunition will be used in civilian areas.
What if someone has a problem or emergency during the exercise?
Local residents can contact their municipal authorities or the police, who are in direct communication with EUFOR liaison officers. Any concerns will be addressed immediately.
Is this exercise a sign that the security situation is getting worse?
No. The security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains stable. This is routine training to ensure that, if the need ever arises, EUFOR can respond rapidly. It is a sign of preparedness, not instability.
Will this exercise affect tourism?
No, the exercise will not restrict tourism activities. Visitors may see military activity in some areas, but all tourist sites remain open and safe to visit.
How will this exercise benefit Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Quick Response 2026 improves cooperation between EUFOR and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, builds trust, and ensures that international forces are ready to support the country in times of need. It also shows that the international community continues to stand by Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Can the local population meet the soldiers?
Yes. In some locations, EUFOR will organize community engagement events where residents can meet soldiers, see equipment, and learn more about EUFOR’s work. These events will be announced publicly.
How is the exercise funded?
The exercise is funded by the contributing nations and the European Union. There is no cost to the citizens or government of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
What message does this exercise send?
The message is simple: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s peace and stability matter to the international community. EUFOR and its partners are united, capable, and ready to protect it if necessary.