A BRITISH Army reservist has praised the opportunity to train alongside Croatian forces during a vital NATO exercise.
James Baroy-Jones, 22, from Widnes, is one of around 120 reservists from the 4th Battalion, the Mercian Regiment (4 Mercian) taking part in Exercise Sava Star in Croatia.
The annual two-week training event, hosted by the Croatian Armed Forces, aims to strengthen UK-Croatian military cooperation and improve joint operational capabilities.
Private Baroy-Jones said: “I’ve loved working with the Croatians, seeing their capabilities and what their strengths are so I can learn from them, and so can the Mercians.
“I’ve also enjoyed showing them our skills and helping them learn as part of the training exercise.”
Troops are engaged in a wide range of demanding scenarios, including day and night attacks, urban warfare training, and trench warfare.
The exercise focuses on interoperability—ensuring that UK and Croatian forces can work seamlessly together in real-world operations.
Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Lawson, commanding officer of the 4th Battalion Mercian Regiment, said: “Exercise Sava Star has been ongoing for 13 years and is well established.
“We are working with and learning from Regular Croatian Armed Forces and it has been beneficial for us both.
“It is key we are interoperable with our NATO allies, and this enhances our cooperation and understanding whilst strengthening our relationships.”
The deployment also tests 4 Mercian’s ability to operate over great distance and return home efficiently, making sure they remain ready for future exercises and operations.
Soldiers from 4th Battalion, the Mercian Regiment (4 Mercian) take part in urban lessons with soldiers from the Croatian Armed Forces. Pte Baroy-Jones cleans his rifle after practicing urban skills (Image: Sergeant Andrew Grayson)
The schedule also includes opportunities for Croatian and British soldiers to share knowledge, learn from one another, and build personal connections, further strengthening the alliance between the two nations.
Captain Matej Takalic, company commander in the Croatian Armed Forces, said: “I am working with the British Company Commander.
“It’s good to get a chance to work with allied forces, it enhances our interoperability, which is more important than ever.”
The 4th Battalion (4 Mercian) troops, part of the British Army Reserve, is a light role infantry company, trained to operate with agility and adaptability.
By participating in Exercise Sava Star, 4 Mercian continues to demonstrate the readiness of the British Army Reserve to contribute to the UK’s commitment to international defence.