That the Parliament recognises and commends the significant role of Scottish troops in the recent Exercise Steadfast Dart 25 (STDT25); understands that STDT25 was the first large-scale deployment exercise of NATO’s Allied Reaction Force, conducted across various geographical locations in the first three months of 2025; notes that approximately 10,000 soldiers, sailors, aircrew, and marines from nine allied countries, tested their deployable capabilities, procedures, and interoperability on the deployment; understands that, 2,600 soldiers and 730 vehicles came from the 1st (United Kingdom) Division and 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team, with the brigade commanded by Scottish Brigadier Andrew Watson; further understands that the core fighting troops of the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team comprised soldiers from the 4th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, a light mechanised infantry battlegroup, and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, who provided the Intelligence Surveillance Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance force; believes that the successful completion of the exercise reaffirms the UK's role as a leading NATO ally, ready to respond rapidly to emerging threats and contribute to the security of Europe and the wider world; further believes that it showcased the Alliance’s readiness, capability, and commitment to NATO and European security, and celebrates the particularly strong Scottish representation amongst the land forces deployed and what it sees as their valuable contribution to the success of the operation.
Supported by:
Jeremy Balfour, Miles Briggs, Sharon Dowey, Tim Eagle, Russell Findlay, Murdo Fraser, Meghan Gallacher, Craig Hoy, Liam Kerr, Stephen Kerr, Douglas Lumsden, Edward Mountain, Douglas Ross, Alexander Stewart, Paul Sweeney, Annie Wells, Tess White, Brian Whittle