As every year, the Austrian Armed Forces used the national holiday on October 26th to present itself in the heart of Vienna with a large information and performance show. In a total of 13 themed areas on Heldenplatz, Am Hof, on the Freyung and at the Burgtheater, soldiers presented the latest equipment, tried and tested equipment – and an exciting look into the future of the air force.
A spectacular flyover attracted attention right from the start: several Black Hawk and AW169 helicopters opened the show, followed by a C-130 Hercules and its successor, a modern C-390M Millennium of the Portuguese Air Force. Portuguese Air Force (-> Militär Aktuell reported on the background). Afterwards, two M-346 Advanced Jet Trainers flew over the Heldenplatz – the type that will
Vehicle defiling and swearing-in ceremony
Numerous vehicles then rolled onto the Heldenplatz – including several Pandur Evolution vehicles, one with a Skyranger anti-aircraft turret mock-up, as well as Dingos, Hussars, quads, a Sandviper from the Hunting Command and other armored vehicles. The Leopard-2A4 in the “Leopardine” look was one of the most popular photo motifs of the day.
Another highlight was the swearing-in ceremony for 1,025 recruits, including 15 women, who took their oath of allegiance to the Republic of Austria in front of around 100,000 visitors.
Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized: “National Day is not only an opportunity for the Austrian Armed Forces to showcase our diverse capabilities, but also to show people first-hand how we ensure security, stability and cohesion in Austria. At the same time, this day is a reminder that Austria achieved its permanent neutrality over 70 years ago – a reason that we are proud of and that we celebrate together.”
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In addition to modernized vehicles and aircraft, the Austrian Armed Forces also presented several innovative new features. The virtual world of the Armed Forces “In the thick of it instead of just there”, where visitors could experience the Armed Forces interactively, was particularly well attended. Numerous hands-on stations – including an escape room – invited visitors to try things out. Civilian partners such as the Vienna Vikings and their cheerleaders also took part in the event.
A total of around 1,900 members of the Austrian Armed Forces – including professional and militia soldiers, conscripts and civilian staff – ensured that everything ran smoothly. This year’s national holiday was also marked by several anniversaries: 80 years since the end of the war, 70 years of the Austrian Armed Forces and 30 years of Austria’s EU membership.
Here for more news about the Austrian Armed Forces.
