Strengthening of Azerbaijani Army important for ensuring nation's security Defence chief says

Azerbaijani Defence Minister Col-Gen Zakir Hasanov has said that the further strengthening of the Azerbaijan Army is one of the important factors in ensuring the country’s security.

Hasanov made the remarks at a service meeting with the leadership of the Defence Ministry on October 9, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Defence Ministry.

The minister of defence brought to the attention of the conference participants the duties assigned to the Azerbaijan Army by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. It was mentioned that all responsibilities given to the Army in the implementation of major problems originating from the head of state's remarks must be completed on time.

The current operational conditions at the Azerbaijan-Armenia conditional border were analyzed. Specific tasks were given to strengthen air defence, intelligence and counter-intelligence, radio-electronic warfare and other units.

Relevant instructions were given regarding the specification of tasks and updating of the relevant plans on the future development direction of the Azerbaijan Army.

The meeting also noted the importance of further increasing the quality of the intensive training and exercises of the troops.

The importance of effective use of high technology and the capabilities of specially trained personnel in the combat training events held in the Azerbaijan Army was emphasized. In addition, the high results achieved in the “Khazri-2023”, “Eternity-2023” joint exercises and NATO re-evaluation level 2 (NEL-2) of the OCC battalion and reconnaissance company of the Azerbaijan Army within the framework of the NATO Operational Capabilities Concept (OCC) Programme were noted.

During the winter period, appropriate tasks were given to troop-type commanders regarding issues of combat readiness and comprehensive provision of units, as well as compliance with safety regulations.

Hasanov offered pertinent directions to authorities for the enhancement of moral and psychological training in military units, as well as the strengthening of military discipline.

The minister noted the importance of rewarding military personnel who excelled in combat training and execution of combat tasks, as well as the importance of being sensitive to the adaptation process of young soldiers and other personnel.

The minister gave instructions for the confiscation of military equipment, weapons, particularly mines and improvised explosive devices, as well as strict adherence to safety norms during mine clearing operations in the Garabagh region.

In the end, reports were heard and detailed discussions were conducted on the measures taken to further improve the social and household conditions of military personnel and their family members and to solve their concerns.

The meeting was attended by deputy ministers, troop commanders, heads of departments and services of the ministry, as well as commanders of military units and formations via video link.