SLOVENIAN ARMED FORCES AND SLEET 2014 NATURAL DISASTER

Abstract

Slovenia has a well-established system of protection against natural and other disasters verified in practice. The system also comprises the Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF) functioning as its additional and complementary capability in line with the stipulations of national legal acts. Between 1 and 14 February 2014, the Slovenian Armed Forces were, together with other rescue and relief capabilities, intensively involved in the mitigation of the consequences of SLEET 2014 natural disaster, which hit almost the whole of the Republic of Slovenia. The Slovenian Armed Forces provided assistance in accordance with the existing emergency response plans. During a 13-day period, 6175 SAF members were activated and additional 3200 Slovenian soldiers were on stand-by. The SAF provided assistance to the Civil Protection in 873 activities at more than 170 locations. The existing emergency response plans proved to be appropriate in facilitating quality support and assistance of the Slovenian Armed Forces' members. Upon completion of activities, the Slovenian Armed Forces conducted an in-depth analysis and, based on the findings, initiated the process of updating relevant plans.