On the major exercise

US troop transport also passes through Salzburg

Symbolic image

(Bild: AFP)

Due to a major international military exercise in Germany, US army convoys will be crossing Austria repeatedly over the next few days. From August 13 to 23, 2024, around 300 vehicles will be deployed to the NATO exercise "Saber Junction" and back again. The route will lead from the Thörl-Maglern border crossing (Carinthia) via Salzburg to the Suben border crossing.

In the past two weeks there have already been smaller-scale transits, and now larger transports will follow. According to a spokesperson for the Austrian Armed Forces, these would be more conspicuous, but the vehicles registered by the US forces would not include any really heavy equipment such as tanks. The Ministry of the Interior, together with Asfinag, had taken measures against possible traffic obstructions; there would be no road closures.

Austrian Armed Forces not taking part in exercise
The exercise is led by the "United States Army Europe and Africa" and takes place annually. NATO countries and partner countries such as Albania, Belgium, Georgia and Romania take part. Austria is not involved.

The legal basis for transportation
According to the Ministry of Defense, the Austrian Armed Forces support transit in the area of transport management and generate "added value in the areas of logistical training, further education and training" and use the opportunity for "on-the-job training" for the units involved. The costs incurred by the armed forces in connection with the transit would be reimbursed by the party responsible. The legal basis for the transit of foreign armies through Austrian territory is the Troops Residence Act of 2001.