The Hungarian Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team serving as part of EUFOR Operation Althea not only contributes to maintaining security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina but also to strengthening ties with the local population. In this spirit, on October 9–10, 2026, Sergeant Bence László Sándor, the dog handler for the Hungarian EOD team of EUFOR, and his explosive-detection dog, Sziporka, participated in several professional and media events in Sarajevo.
On 9 October, as part of a joint training organized by the European Union’s peacekeeping mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Hungarian dog handler and his four-legged partner conducted joint training with the canine unit of a local mountain rescue service. The session provided participants with an opportunity to gain insight into each other’s work, learn about the specific characteristics arising from their different roles, and exchange professional experiences regarding the use of service dogs.
The next day, on 10 October, Sergeant Sándor and Sziporka appeared on the local N1 television station’s morning show, accompanied by an Italian pilot from the EUFOR Aviation Detachment. The purpose of the interview was to provide the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a more direct insight into the daily lives, duties, and specialized skills of the soldiers serving in EUFOR. The Hungarian participation provided a particularly good opportunity to highlight the role of explosive-detection dogs and the importance of EOD operations. Viewers of the program also gained insight into the behind-the-scenes secrets of the dogs’ helicopter training, the special bond between service dogs and their handlers, and learned what motivates Sziporka the most.
Joint programs between EUFOR and local organizations contribute to deepening cooperation between peacekeeping forces and civil society, as well as to strengthening social acceptance and a positive perception of the international military presence. The participation of Hungarian soldiers also drew attention to the specialized capabilities provided by the Hungarian Defense Forces to EUFOR and to the role Hungarian personnel play in international operations, while the lighthearted weekend morning TV show further increased the visibility and recognition of Hungarian EOD experts.
