The Hungarian Defence Forces (HDF) have recently conducted a series of significant tests focused on counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) as part of Exercise Adaptive Hussars 2025, marking one of the largest military drills in the nation’s recent history.
Footage released by Hungary’s Ministry of Defence showcases the installation of mesh barriers along vital supply routes and maintenance hubs deemed to be at high risk of drone attacks. These barriers are strategically designed to impede the movement of hostile drones, compelling operators to seek out vulnerabilities in the defense. This tactic aims to buy critical time, allowing personnel and essential equipment to evade detection and potential strikes.
The ongoing Exercise Adaptive Hussars 2025, which commenced in September and is set to continue until mid-October, takes place across multiple regions in Hungary. This joint exercise involves more than 22,000 personnel from the Hungarian forces as well as various NATO allies, encompassing regular and reserve troops, special operations units, engineering teams, logistics personnel, and aviation units.
One of the key objectives of these drills is to assess military readiness, rapid mobility, command and control, and the coordination required with civilian agencies during emergency scenarios, ensuring a comprehensive approach to modern warfare.
In a notable segment of the exercise, Hungarian forces executed a river crossing over the Tisza River between the central-eastern towns of Martfű and Vézény. They employed a temporary bridge to facilitate the movement of Lynx armored fighting vehicles and a Turkish contingent utilizing M113 armored personnel carriers, effectively simulating operations in the aftermath of critical infrastructure attacks, such as the destruction of main bridges.
Adding a unique element to the drills, a reconnaissance unit employed horses to establish a covert observation post near the crossing area. Once their mission was completed, the unit efficiently withdrew the horses to a secure location, showcasing adaptability and innovation within military tactics.
The Exercise Adaptive Hussars 2025 represents a pivotal moment for Hungary’s military capabilities, emphasizing the evolving nature of defense strategies in response to modern threats.
