Austrian Ambassador visits the NATO MW COE
The NATO Mountain Warfare Centre of Excellence (MW COE) was honoured to welcome H.E. Dr. Konrad G. Bühler, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the Republic of Slovenia, and Brigadier General Manfred Hanzl, Austrian Defence Attaché, for an official visit to the Centre in Poljče, Slovenia
The visit provided an excellent opportunity to present the Centre’s mission, current activities, and future initiatives aimed at enhancing mountain warfare capabilities across NATO and partner nations. During a comprehensive briefing, the guests received an overview of the MW COE’s ongoing work in the fields of doctrine development, education and training, concept development and experimentation, lessons learned, and support to the wider mountain warfare community.
Particular attention was given to the rapidly evolving security environment and the challenges faced by modern mountain forces. Discussions covered the increasing importance of multidomain operations, the integration of emerging technologies, the role of unmanned systems, and the continued need for highly capable mountain troops able to operate in some of the world’s most demanding terrain and climatic conditions.
The Austrian Ambassador and Defence Attaché expressed great interest in the Centre’s activities and were impressed by the professionalism, expertise, and commitment demonstrated by the multinational staff. The visit also highlighted the important contribution of the Centre to strengthening interoperability, promoting innovation, and supporting the continuous development of mountain warfare capabilities within the Alliance.
A key aspect of the visit was the opportunity to underline the long-standing and excellent cooperation between Austria and the NATO Mountain Warfare Centre of Excellence. Austria has continuously supported the Centre’s development and activities through the active participation of Austrian personnel, expertise, and contributions to education, training, doctrine, and concept development. This close cooperation has significantly contributed to the Centre’s success and its recognition as a leading institution for mountain warfare expertise.
Following the briefing, an open and constructive exchange of views took place on the future of mountain warfare, the evolution of mountain forces, and the importance of international cooperation in addressing future operational challenges. The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment to further strengthening mountain warfare capabilities and ensuring that Allied and partner forces remain prepared to operate effectively in complex mountainous environments.
The MW COE greatly appreciates the visit and the continued support provided by Austria. Such engagements further strengthen the close relationship between Austria and the Centre and contribute to the ongoing development of mountain warfare knowledge, expertise, and capabilities for the benefit of the Alliance and its partners.
