Bečić: Strategic investment in state security

The construction of the new building of the Command of the First Infantry Battalion of the Army of Montenegro (VCG), which began today, is not only an infrastructural, but also a strategic investment in the security of the state, the stability of defense and the future of the Army, said Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić.

Bečić and Defense Minister Dragan Krapović visited today the beginning of the construction of the new building of the Command of the First Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of Montenegro at the "People's Hero Milovan Šaranović" barracks in Danilovgrad.

As announced by the Ministry of Defense, Bečić pointed out that the Government, in anticipation of October 7 - the Day of the Armed Forces of Montenegro, is celebrating with special pride a series of significant infrastructure investments in the defense system.

He emphasized that the construction of a hangar for housing aircraft at the "Knjaz Danilo Petrović Njegoš" military airport in Zeta has been completed, for which about three million euros have been allocated from the capital budget.

"Today, the construction of a hangar for housing light armored vehicles and a functional workshop in the '13. July' barracks in Nikšić, worth over two million euros, was completed," said Bečić.

He pointed out that today they are continuing on the premises of the "People's Hero Milovan Šaranović" barracks, where the construction of the new building of the First Infantry Battalion Command begins, worth over 5,5 million euros.

According to Bečić, this extremely important project will be implemented in accordance with the highest safety and technical standards, and its completion will provide better working conditions for members of the Army.

"This is not only an infrastructural, but also a strategic investment in the security of our country, the stability of defense and the future of the Army of Montenegro," Bečić emphasized.

He thanked everyone participating in the project's implementation, stating that "it is the joint effort of the Ministry of Defense, the Army, designers and engineers, and other engaged individuals, as well as the clear message that a strong Army means a strong state."

"We are sending a message that, in addition to personnel reforms, we are also bringing an infrastructural boost to the system that will be felt by our soldiers in all Montenegrin barracks. Comprehensive reforms in all fields are ongoing with the goal of building a strong, modern, stable, resilient and clean security and defense sector," said Bečić.

The statement states that the construction of the facility worth 5,6 million euros represents one of the most significant infrastructure projects of the Ministry of Defense.

It is emphasized that the new facility will be built and equipped in accordance with the highest safety and technical standards, and the works will last two years.

As announced, Bečić and Krapović also visited new "Alaska" type tents, which the Ministry of Defense purchased as part of a cooperation program with the United States of America.

"With a total value of over $10 million, these modern and multifunctional tents enable quality temporary accommodation, work and training for up to 700 people in field conditions," the statement said.

Krapović said that these tents significantly improve the Army's capacities in the field of logistics and operational support, especially in emergency situations, international missions and providing assistance to the population in crisis circumstances.

He emphasized that the system includes the most modern command, medical, logistics and other tents, which are completely protected from fire and other external influences, with air conditioning and complete infrastructure for field work.

"The purchase of tents is not just an infrastructure investment, but an investment in the future of our Army and its readiness to respond to all challenges and tasks," said Krapović.

As he stated, the Ministry of Defense remains committed to creating a modern, efficient and well-equipped Army, which is a guarantor of peace, stability and security for all citizens.

Earlier today, Krapović visited the "13. July" barracks in Nikšić, where he ceremonially opened a workshop for housing JLTV light armored vehicles, worth 2,2 million euros, whose construction took two years.

"Today we are not just opening a building, but we are opening the door to a new stage in strengthening the capacities of the Army. These are facilities that will serve the members of our Army, but also all of us, as a strong message that the state stands behind its Army and appreciates their effort, sacrifice and loyalty to the homeland," said Krapović.

He emphasized that soldiers are the pride of Montenegro.

"I am confident that they will use the new capacities with the same responsibility with which they protect the interests and security of the state every day," concluded Krapović.