Hungarian Ground Forces
The Hungarian Ground Forces (Hungarian: Magyar Szárazföldi Haderő, Hungarian pronunciation: [ˈmɒɟɒr ˈsaːrɒzføldi ˈhɒdɛrøː]) constitute the land branch of the Hungarian Defence Forces, responsible for ground activities and troops, including artillery, tanks, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), and ground support. The ground forces have a history of service in Iraq and are currently engaged in the KFOR (Kosovo Force) operation.
Hungarian Ground Forces | |
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Magyar Szárazföldi Haderő | |
Unit colour | |
Country | Hungary |
Allegiance | Hungarian Defence Forces |
Branch | Ground Forces |
Size | 31,900 active duty personnel |
Part of | Hungarian Defence Forces |
Garrison/HQ | Székesfehérvár |
Colors | Red, White and Green |
Anniversaries | 29 September |
Commanders | |
Current commander | Brig. Gen. Gábor Lőrincz |
The predecessors of the Hungarian ground forces include the Royal Hungarian Landwehr, the Royal Hungarian Army, and the ground force components of the Hungarian People's Army. During the Cold War, Hungary was aligned with the Soviet Union and was a member of the Warsaw Pact. However, following the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Hungary significantly reduced the number of tanks and troops and closed several garrisons. The Hungarian Army now focuses on national security, peacekeeping, and international conflicts. Notably, Hungary became a member of NATO in 1999.