Emotions ran high on Monday at Mersch Park, creating a surprisingly moving atmosphere for a military parade. The ceremony marked a pivotal moment for the Luxembourg Army, as General Steve Thull passed on the leadership after nearly four decades of service, including six years as chief.
After 39 years in uniform, with the last six as head of the Luxembourg Army, General Steve Thull formally handed command to General Claude Robinet. While Thull’s tenure saw significant progress for Luxembourg’s armed forces, Robinet takes over at a time of major challenges and ongoing transformation.
The ceremony unfolded beneath blue skies and late-summer warmth, making the heavy military uniforms all the more taxing to wear. A change of command involves the formation of troops in a square in front of a stand filled with guests from the military, politics, and civil society, accompanied by military music and strict procedures. For the final time, General Thull participated as chief of the Luxembourg Army – a role he described as both an honour and a privilege.
Reflecting on his departure, Thull remarked: "When you hand over command, you go home and you are no longer the chief. After so many years in the army, it is a strange feeling – not because you are no longer in charge, but because the chief has the great privilege of working with so many people who do excellent work. That is what I will miss. I wish them every success as they continue to safeguard Luxembourg, peace, and democracy."
Despite his military bearing, General Thull’s speech included several personal and emotional moments. He began by thanking his parents for his upbringing and support, then expressed gratitude to his family – especially to his wife Pascale and their children – for their steadfast support throughout his career.
Thull also chose Abba’s "Arrival" as the soundtrack for his final troop review, an emotional gesture in a context shaped by war in Europe, disruptive technologies, and ever-present threats. Army chiefs from Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, and Romania attended, which Thull said underscored European solidarity.
During his tenure as Chief of Defence, Thull oversaw major modernisation efforts, most notably the creation of a binational combat battalion with Belgian colleagues in Arlon. "The project is in full swing", he said, adding that the first soldiers are expected to begin service in 2028, with recruitment progressing as planned.
The Luxembourg Army now operates drones, and air and missile defence systems will soon be added to its arsenal. With the handover, it is clear that Claude Robinet will be responsible for continuing this transformation.
Minister of Defence Yuriko Backes emphasised the need for sufficient funding and recruitment, stating: "Transformation is only possible if Defence is provided with the necessary financial resources and if the army can recruit the required personnel. Defence must continue to grow significantly, and the appeal of army careers must be strengthened."
The new Chief of the Army then introduced his guiding principle: "Let’s Do It Army." Robinet explained, "Do It stands for our four current challenges: D for a diverse and broad-based army, O for operational readiness, I for integrity, and T for technology." He elaborated on these priorities in his speech.
“We will only remain relevant if we integrate new technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and robotics", Robinet said. "The Russian war of aggression in Ukraine demonstrates what future warfare may look like. Our adaptation to new realities must be carried out in line with international rules. We lead by example, but we are not naïve."
Steve Thull, for his part, is also aware of the challenges of retirement. The keen endurance athlete has plans for the future: "I will try to get back into shape on the sporting front", he said, suggesting a new chapter ahead.
Thull may be leaving the army, but its influence – particularly its discipline – will remain a part of him.
