The Luxembourg army is embarking on a transformative journey marked by increased manpower, upgraded equipment, and a new flagship mission with NATO - signalling a notable rise in its military capabilities.
According to General Steve Thull, the army is poised for a substantial enhancement, projecting the ability to conduct manoeuvres at battalion level within the next decade. This advancement signifies a notable escalation in military prowess, characterised by enhanced combat reconnaissance capabilities and the acquisition of state-of-the-art rolling stock.
Today, Luxembourg's soldiers operate vehicles weighing approximately 12 tonnes, a metric set to double to 25 tonnes for future operations, equipped with advanced armaments. The planned upgrade includes transitioning from a 12.7-caliber cannon to a 40mm variant, reinforcing the army's combat capabilities.
With concerted efforts from the Defence Directorate and army leadership, preparations are underway to fortify the army's future capabilities. Plans include procuring French-produced tanks of Jaguar and Griffon types, in collaboration with Belgium, alongside the acquisition of 80 EAGLE V type vehicles from Switzerland.
General Steve Thull affirms Luxembourg's commitment to becoming a cornerstone of European defence requirements, emphasising the establishment of a Belgian-Luxembourg battalion with a projected base in Arlon by 2030. This battalion is envisioned as a force comprising 700 soldiers, with Luxembourg contributing 350 troops. The idea is to be ready to defend Europe's borders in times of conflict.
In tandem with the battalion's establishment, plans are underway to establish a logistics centre within Luxembourg's territory, facilitating maintenance for the acquired rolling stock. This strategic setup will enable swift deployment of equipment via rail to areas requiring reinforcement, enhancing the army's operational agility and effectiveness.
Luxembourg Army enhances recruitment efforts and expands career opportunities
Amidst its ambitious modernization endeavors, the Luxembourg army is witnessing a robust recruitment drive, signaling promising prospects for bolstering its ranks in the future.
General Steve Thull highlights the success of recruitment initiatives, citing a notably high recruitment rate as a positive indicator for the army's future readiness. Focusing on the importance of a diverse recruitment pool, Thull highlights the army's commitment to accommodating individuals with varied educational backgrounds. The recruitment framework encompasses opportunities for A2 careers, tailored for candidates holding a bachelor's degree, as well as avenues for B1s, targeting graduates of secondary education.
In an effort to attract top-tier talent, Thull mentions ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing the army's appeal and diversifying career options for prospective recruits. These initiatives include roles in cyber defence and participation in earth observation satellite programmes. "The army of tomorrow is committed to world peace, and there is no nobler place to be committed to peace," the general concludes.
