Soldiers from Able Battery, 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment, Task Force Voit, Apache Troop, 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, and the Maryland Army National Guard (MDARNG) joined forces with Estonian and NATO allies. The event aimed to strengthen multinational cooperation and improve military planning and operational capabilities.
The U.S. Army deployed M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), M2A4 Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and fire support teams as part of the exercise. The HIMARS battery provided long-range precision fire support to Estonian and NATO allied forces (BLUFOR), while the Bradleys played the role of opposing forces (OPFOR). MDARNG units participated as both BLUFOR and OPFOR during the multi-day event.
Emphasising the importance of joint training, U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jenna Hackman, a support platoon leader with Able Battery, stated, “It is important for us to work with our NATO allies in the field because it improves our interoperability and it allows us to work together to accomplish a common goal.” The collaborative efforts challenged units with complex, realistic scenarios, aiming to enhance readiness and unity among allied forces.
The exercise highlighted the significance of building relationships within the NATO framework. “It’s important working with our NATO allied partners because if you really want to be an effective war-fighter then you need to start developing relationships with your partners,” said 1st Lt. Russell Meadows, fire support officer with the Maryland Army National Guard.
Exercise Hedgehog 2025 showcased the ability of NATO and allied forces to coordinate effectively in high-stakes, realistic training environments. The joint operations underscored the commitment to regional defense and the shared mission of maintaining peace and stability.
Reflecting on the experience, 1st Sgt. Alber Conolley from Able Battery expressed a sense of fulfillment: “When you get to be a part of helping another nation secure the rights and freedoms that we get to enjoy as Americans is very gratifying.” He added, “To see them want to live free and want to have the same rights and liberties… is very humbling.”
The involvement of V Corps in the exercise underscored its commitment to maintaining a lethal and agile force posture along NATO’s eastern flank. By deploying armored vehicles, long-range artillery, and support teams, V Corps played a crucial role in preparing allied forces for potential threats.
Additionally, the Maryland National Guard’s ongoing partnership with Estonia, facilitated through the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, reflects a broader strategy of building enduring relationships. These collaborations enhance global security by fostering long-term alliances and improving collective readiness among NATO member states.
