Albania celebrated a significant milestone with the inauguration of the NATO Tactical Air Base in Kuçovë, Berat County. Attended by top officials from Albania and several partner nations, including Kosovo, North Macedonia, Italy, and Turkey, the ceremony underscored the strategic importance of the base for regional security. President Bajram Begaj highlighted the collaborative effort behind the base’s establishment, emphasizing NATO’s commitment to collective defense and Albania’s strategic interests in alignment with NATO and EU membership aspirations.

Prime Minister Edi Rama emphasized the base’s role in bolstering regional security against potential threats, particularly emphasizing the importance of countering any neo-imperial ambitions. With investments from NATO and Albania, the base is set to serve as a crucial hub for tactical and operational activities, supporting Albania’s air force capabilities. The addition of new aircraft, including Black Hawk helicopters and Bayraktar drones, signals a commitment to further enhancing the country’s defense capabilities in cooperation with strategic partners.

The inauguration ceremony also featured displays and flights showcasing the modernized infrastructure and equipment, symbolizing Albania’s integration into NATO’s air defense system. With extensive investments in infrastructure and security measures, the base is poised to meet NATO standards and enhance interoperability within the alliance. Albania’s active participation in NATO initiatives, coupled with the inauguration of the Kuçovë base, demonstrates the country’s commitment to regional security and its evolving role as a key ally within the alliance.