Hungarian Defence Minister Visits 3NSB DCM-E

DCM-E took over its CIS (Communications and Information System) equipment called LINC-E (Limited Interim CIS Capability – Enhanced) this spring in Poland. This new equipment will enable the unit to establish and support computer networks and communications capabilities of future NATO operations, vital to mission success. The commander of the unit, Major László Dózsa noted that the designated personnel are constantly preparing for the next NATO exercise, Exercise Steadfast Juncture 2013, to be certified as an element of the NATO Response Force (NRF) for 2014.

During the visit, Mr Hende was briefed on the characteristics and tasks of LINC-E. The capabilities of the new equipment were demonstrated by an email exchange and a live telephone call to those DCM-E soldiers already deployed to Kosovo. The minister met the commander of the 3rd NATO Signal Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Alois Zdrha. Lt. Col. Zdrha stated that Hungary’s contribution of a deployable communications unit is strengthening the capabilities of the Alliance. He added that the personnel and equipment are fully interoperable with the rest of the Alliance, and its members have already supported important NATO missions including those in Afghanistan and Kosovo.

At the end of his visit Mr. Hende concluded that DCM-E is very important to Hungary and the Hungarian Defence Forces as a unit offered by Hungary. It is an integral part of the NATO Command Structure and the experience and the knowledge of those serving in this unit will enhance the defence capabilities of Hungary.

DCM-E is an integral part of the 3rd NATO Signal Battalion which is subordinate to the NATO CIS Group (NCISG).

NCISG is a multinational organisation with 18 DCMs, organised into three Battalions (each with a staff) and a central HQ. Currently NATO CIS Group is located in 13 countries.

3NSB HQ is located in Bydgoszcz, Poland and comprises DCMs from Czech Republic, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Turkey.

Photo: Gábor Kálmánfi