Combat-style military manoeuvres today in Budapest, multiple roads and motorways – photos
Hungarian Defence Forces are conducting combat-style manoeuvres between several major cities today, deploying troops and equipment on numerous main roads and motorways. The military convoys, comprising vehicles and combat machinery, will at times be accompanied by helicopters from the air force. There is no cause for alarm: this is not a wartime mobilisation, though it may give such an impression to some.
Why is half the army being redeployed?
According to MTI, the heightened road and air traffic, as well as increased noise levels across much of the country, are part of the large-scale ‘Adaptive Hussars 2025’ (ADHU 25) joint military and government defence exercise, now entering its third week. Running since 1 September, the operation is the Hungarian Defence Forces’ largest, most important and most complex manoeuvre since the regime change.
Land, water, and air – Adaptive Hussars 2025:
In connection with the Adaptive Hussars 2025 drill, between 15–28 September, combat-style movements will be carried out by Hungarian Defence Forces units and equipment across several major Hungarian cities. According to the Ministry of Defence, the convoys, made up of vehicles and armoured units, will be accompanied on occasion by military helicopters.
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What should you do if you encounter a military convoy?
First and foremost, do not panic. This is not preparation for war, and there is no immediate danger. However, such convoys require extra caution from drivers. Military vehicles and formations differ from typical traffic and may require specific driving considerations. The Defence Forces request cooperation from the public and explicitly stress that entering or cutting into military columns is dangerous and strictly prohibited.
Where can we expect combat-style manoeuvres?
In short, across most counties, numerous motorways, roads, and towns. Yesterday, a convoy of military vehicles already moved from the Szentes barracks to the Martfű ferry. More detailed movements include:
- Today, between 08:00 and 20:00, expect technical equipment relocation along the Szentes barracks – Kunszentmárton – Martfű – Rákócziújfalu – Rákóczifalva – Szolnok and Hódmezővásárhely barracks – Szentes – Kunszentmárton – Martfű – Rákócziújfalu – Rákóczifalva – Szolnok routes.
- On 15 September, from 10:00 to 14:00, military convoys under military police escort will travel from Székesfehérvár on the M7 motorway to Budapest, and within Budapest along the Jászberényi út 39-41 – Kőbányai út – Könyves Kálmán Blvd – Bocskai út – Budaörsi út – Mária Terézia barracks.
- Also on 15 September, between 05:00 and 16:00, expect convoys moving between Győr and Kecskemét along the Győr (barracks) – M19 – M1 – M0 – M5 – Route 445 – Kecskemét route. The tank division from Tata will also reposition between 10:00 and 17:00 on the Tata – Route 1 – Győr path.
- Military convoys will also operate on 15 September across the route: Kecskemét – Route 445 – M5 – Route 52 – Solt – Route 51 – M8 – M6 – Route 62 – M7 – Route 8 – Route 83 – Pápa. In the Pápa area, increased noise is expected due to fixed-wing aircraft activity.
Lastly, a video of our troops crossing the Danube:
FAQ – Hungary in NATO – Key Facts
When did Hungary join NATO?
Hungary became a member of NATO on 12 March 1999, alongside Poland and the Czech Republic.
How large is the Hungarian Defence Forces?
The Hungarian Defence Forces have around 30,000 active personnel and about 20,000 reservists. The army is currently undergoing modernization with new vehicles, aircraft, and equipment.
Why are military manoeuvres held in Budapest?
Exercises in urban areas test how troops, vehicles, and logistics perform in real-life city environments. They also demonstrate NATO-level readiness.
Do these drills mean there is a security threat?
No. The manoeuvres are part of scheduled training exercises. They are not connected to any direct threat to Hungary.
What role does Hungary play in NATO?
Hungary contributes troops to NATO missions abroad, takes part in joint exercises, and hosts NATO’s Multinational Division Centre Headquarters in Székesfehérvár.
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