In the morning hours, the Armed Forces deployed a further 55 disaster relief specialists to join the 33 Styrian pioneers already deployed (-> current news about the assistance missions of the Austrian Armed Forces) for disaster relief in Styria. These reinforcements are being provided by the Villach Pioneer Battalion 1. 88 pioneers – also with heavy equipment – are currently helping to clear blockages in the Teigitschgraben near Voitsberg.
Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner: “The events of the past few days show how important it is to act quickly and in a coordinated manner. These reinforcements show that the Armed Forces are always ready to help and support – the protection of the population is the top priority. This readiness illustrates the role of the Armed Forces in coping with disasters and supporting our society. I would like to thank all the soldiers and civilian emergency personnel who stand ready to help the population in times of need.”
“These reinforcements show that the Armed Forces are ready to help and support at any time – protecting the population is the top priority.”
Verteidigungsministerin Klaudia Tanner
Pioneers and heavy equipment in action
The Villach pioneers bring heavy equipment with them to clear blockages. For example, two excavators with up to 20 tons and two crane trucks with up to 76 tons of lifting capacity support the disaster relief assistance operation. Eight chainsaw cutting teams also reinforced the existing emergency services. During the dangerous work, two medical teams from the Austrian Armed Forces are on hand to provide first aid on site. https://militaeraktuell.at/bae-systems-und-tatra-defence-vehicle-kooperieren/ As of today, a total of 88 pioneers are clearing blockages along the Teigitschgraben near Voitsberg. The duration of the operation cannot yet be estimated. Already In June, the Austrian Armed Forces helped after storms with up to 300 soldiers at times – together with civilian emergency services – helped to remove the consequences of flooding, particularly in the Oberwart and Hartberg areas.
Click here for more army news.
