Hungary Doubles EUFOR Althea Standby Force to 300 Personnel

Hungary is increasing its domestic standby reserve assigned to the European Union's EUFOR Althea mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 150 to 300 military personnel, strengthening its capacity to reinforce the operation if security conditions require additional troops.

Hungarian Defense Minister Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi announced the planned increase on November 4, following discussions in the Hungarian parliament about the country's military commitments to the Western Balkans.

The additional personnel will form part of Hungary's standby capability maintained on Hungarian territory. The announcement does not represent an immediate deployment of 150 additional soldiers to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Hungary Expands Its Reinforcement Readiness

According to the Hungarian Ministry of Defense, the increase reflects expanded operational responsibilities and changes in the organization of the country's military contribution to EUFOR Althea.

Since September, a Hungarian infantry company has been placed on domestic readiness. The ministry said that adjusting the authorized reserve strength and deployment arrangements is necessary to ensure sufficient forces are available when required.

The minister emphasized that stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans remains directly connected to Hungary's national security interests.

Hungary has participated in international military operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina for nearly three decades. In 2024, Hungarian Major General László Sticz commanded EUFOR Althea, while Hungary has provided the mission's deputy commander since March 2026.

EUFOR Continues Its Security Mission in Bosnia

EUFOR Althea operates under an international mandate to support a safe and secure environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The mission combines a multinational force deployed in the country with reserve capabilities that can be activated when operational circumstances require reinforcement.

The increase in Hungary's standby contingent follows the recent renewal of EUFOR Althea's mandate through October 2027.

In August and September, EUFOR conducted its Quick Response 2026 exercise, testing the movement and integration of reserve units from several European countries.

The latest Hungarian decision strengthens the pool of military personnel available for such reinforcement operations without necessarily changing the mission's current deployed strength.

No immediate changes to EUFOR's command structure or a new deployment date were announced alongside the increase.