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Strong Together: SAJ and U.S. Special Forces Joint Training

Emergency Information for American Citizens

U.S. special forces and SAJ this year completed their 11th Joint Combined Exchange Training, which culminated in a rare first: a training event held on at the residence of the U.S. Ambassador in Belgrade.

Over the past month, members of the U.S. Green Berets and the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (SAJ) of the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs trained together, and during the final demonstration, they showcased tactics for handling a hostage situation. Such trainings contribute to strengthening the ties between the two units and highlight the importance of international security cooperation.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, Paul Jukić, said: “I look forward to the continued development of the relationship between U.S. Special Forces and the Serbian Special Anti-Terrorist Unit — with more complex training, more frequent points of contact, and growing mutual trust. I want to emphasize that today’s event is a continuation of the joint air operation dedicated to commemorating Operation Halyard — an event we plan to organize again this year.”

Brigadier General Joseph Lock, Deputy Commander of Special Operations Command Europe, said: “It’s wonderful to be back in Serbia. Observing today’s exercise only confirmed that SAJ is the most capable and professional special unit not only in Europe but in the world. Our partnership is unique, and both our countries are safer because of it.”

The attendees were able to follow the demonstration on a livestream, which broadcasted drone footage from the air and body camera recordings from members of the special units who took part in the simulated hostage rescue at the residence. Certificates were awarded to the special forces personnel who participated in the training.

The Commander of the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (SAJ), Spasoje Vulević, emphasized that members of the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit of the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs proudly stand shoulder to shoulder with members of the Texas National Guard, with whom they safeguard shared values such as freedom, security, and stability.

Assistant Police Director Dejan Luković stated: “In a time of major global challenges such as terrorism and extremism, conducting joint exercises is of great importance and at the same time provides an opportunity for us to learn from one another, to become faster, more efficient, and stronger in responding to all security threats that may arise. Likewise, the implementation of joint exercises symbolizes not only professional development and the exchange of knowledge—it is also a space for building friendships and strengthening partnerships, with a powerful message of joint action and shared strategies in addressing various security challenges.”

Video of the JCET is available on the Embassy Instagram profile.

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