1st Armored Division Transfers Authority to 3rd Infantry Division in Romania

MIHAIL KOGăLNICEANU AIR BASE, Romania – Senior leaders and government officials from the U.S. Army, Romanian Armed Forces, and Hungarian Defence Forces gathered Monday afternoon to observe the transfer of authority from the 1st Armored Division (1AD) Tactical Command Post to the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) Tactical Command Post. Over the last nine months, 1AD demonstrated unwavering commitment to the mission in Area of Operations (AO) Victory South in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

As the oldest and most recognizable armor division in the U.S. Army, 1AD continued their legacy of excellence through execution of numerous training events alongside partners in the Black Sea region. TF Iron successfully advanced U.S.—NATO command and control integration with detailed planning of crisis response operations, eastern flank defense lines, and forward land forces expansion.

Division efforts directly impacted the region as TF Iron conducted multinational exercises and security cooperation events, certified NATO CBRN teams during international evaluations, and facilitated multi-ship refueling operations to increase NATO air mission sortie rates by 30%. The air and missile defense cell also increased theater warning capabilities across the AO through integration of numerous air defense systems on one network for improved situational awareness.

Simultaneously, subordinate task forces, ‘Raider’ and ‘Strike,’ tested innovation and modernization with new unmanned aerial systems, countermeasures, and fire direction systems technology. The expansive mission sets of 1AD ultimately reinforced partnerships and bolstered security efforts while remaining focused on deterrence.

During the ceremony, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Jared D. Bordwell, Deputy Commanding General for Support for 1st Armored Division, expressed his sincere gratitude to our Allies as he highlighted the significance of the training rotation for each TF Iron Soldier.

“To our partners, on behalf of roughly 3,000 Soldiers that had this unique opportunity to serve in Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania, thank you. Our Soldiers had the opportunity to train alongside your Soldiers, learn from your leaders, and most importantly, be exposed to your incredible culture and history,” said Bordwell.

Iron Soldiers strengthened partnerships and proved they remain ready, trained, and equipped to accomplish any mission. 3ID is now postured to accept the mission and maintain efforts towards interoperability, deterrence, and regional security.

U.S. Army Col. Timothy D. Gatlin, Deputy Commanding Officer for Maneuver for 3rd Infantry Division, emphasized how 3ID deeply appreciates the support provided by 1AD and the MKAB community as they make their transition.

“As we continue this work together, our collaboration will be essential to strengthening the collective capabilities throughout the region. To the Marne Division Soldiers and the U.S. service members serving with us, the time is now. Let us take full advantage of this incredible opportunity. Let us remain focused, committed, and united in strength, purpose, and victory,” said Gatlin.

The transfer of authority ceremony officially signified the start of 3ID’s forward presence in the Black Sea region and reaffirmed the U.S. Army’s commitment to our partners and Allies along NATO’s eastern flank.