139 trainee soldiers undergo initial military training (IMT) to get ready for service in the Slovak Armed Forces

139 basic recruits have been undergoing initial military training (IMT) at the Training and Mobilisation Force Generation Base Martin. They are now into the third week of Phase 1 training as part of the seven week-long IMT education and drilling programme – which is about getting them ready for their service in the Slovak Armed Forces.

This marks the fourth intake of trainee soldiers in the Preparatory State Service (PSS) this year. Those interested in entering the Armed Forces can go to www.budemvojak.sk to find out the upcoming dates for screening IMT candidates.

Reflecting on the recruitment of young people into the Armed Forces, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď said: “To these young people, not only do the gates of barracks mean their future career and stability, but especially a commitment to serve their country and an opportunity to be part of a very special team, which – for many of them – will become their second family. The Slovak Armed Forces have welcomed over 1,000 new service personnel into their ranks this year alone, and with our support for the continuing stabilisation and prestige of the military profession, I believe these figures will continue to grow.”

After all in-processing – paperwork and issuance of military clothing and equipment – at 41 Supply Base Nemšová, the newcomers have been assigned to the Training Platoons, where what they have been trained on basic soldiering skills and drilling procedures will be exercised on the ranges at Martin Garrison's Sučany training ground and at the facilities of the Training and Mobilisation Force Generation Base Martin.

In addition, the Initial Military Fitness training helps them build their physical and psychological resilience as they carry out training tasks and get adjusted to the conditions of military life.

To mark the end of their successful basic training, the junior soldiers (JS) will attend a passing out parade, take an oath of allegiance to the Slovak Armed Forces, and will be promoted to the rank of Private (OR-1), known as “1st Degree Private” in the Slovak Armed Forces. After that, the JS will head off to respective Phase 2 training establishments for branch-specialised, trade-specific training for a period of 3-6 months.