2016-01-13 17:16
UK Troops Deploy To Train Nigerian Forces Fighting Boko Haram
A UK military training team will shortly deploy to Nigeria to train local forces fighting Boko Haram.
More than 35 extra personnel from the Second Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment (2 R ANGLIAN), will deliver infantry training to Nigerian military personnel preparing to tackle the extremist group in the north of the country.
The Defence Secretary
announced a step up in training to help Nigerian forces stamp out the threat posed by Boko Haram last month. Michael Fallon said:
"We stand united with Nigeria in its efforts to defeat the murderous Boko Haram extremists."
"Stepping up our training efforts will help support the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for crucial counter-insurgency operations."
It's expected that the number of British personnel deployed on training tasks in Nigeria will more than double in the coming year, with up to 400 expected to provide support during 2016.
British troops training Nigerian Army for Boko Haram fight
Of this number, some will be RAF personnel forming a new training team to improve the knowledge and skills of the Nigerian Air Force in airfield defence and counter insurgency. In 2013 the RAF sent in Tornado fighter jets in Nigeria to help track over 200 school girls that were kidnapped by Boko Haram.
A specialist team will also deploy to provide assistance in countering improvised explosive devices, as well as medical training and advice.
Around 230 UK military personnel
deployed to Nigeria on a wide range of training tasks last year.
This included training in infantry skills, civil-military affairs, media operations, command and leadership, IED-awareness, and support to Nigerian military training schools and establishments.
Almost 1,000 Nigerian military personnel have now been trained to prepare them for counter-insurgency operations in north east Nigeria, and the work by 2 R ANGLIAN, known as The Poachers, is now well-recognised across the AFN.
The UK also supports a Nigerian intelligence and analysis cell focussed on the north east and based in Abuja, and nearly 30 UK Armed Forces personnel are deployed in Nigeria on an enduring basis in training and advisory roles.
UK Troops Deploy To Train Nigerian Forces Fighting Boko Haram | Forces TV
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2016-01-14 16:25
How To Fight And Win In The Jungles Of Brunei
Brunei has a
long relationship with the British Armed Forces.
Swapping military vehicles for jungle boots and strong backs it has often proved the ultimate training ground for jungle warfare, with troops learning to live, survive and fight in a unique environment.
Currently enjoying the oppressive heat and cloying humidity are Y Company, 1st Battalion Regiment of Royal Fusiliers (RRF), normally based at Tidworth in Wiltshire.
To watch the British Army battling in Belize jungles, click here.
The Fusiliers, who are usually an armoured infantry unit using the Warrior fighting vehicle, have relished the opportunity to re-engage with the light infantry role.
The British Army in Brunei also comprises a Gurkha Infantry Battalion (Bn) and a Bell 212 Helicopter Flight of the Army Air Corps
They have been training hard, in their core skills; ranging from basic field craft to more advanced jungle survival techniques. But working in such hostile conditions brings a host of new challenges which the Fusiliers have had to learn to overcome.
Lance Corporal Daniel Teesdale said: "Navigating out here is a massive challenge, usually you can see a good kilometre away, and can have a good view of key landmarks, in the jungle you can barely see 20 meters ahead of you, and it can take 20 minutes to go just 100 meters as you hack your way through the undergrowth."
A patrol from the Queen's Own Highlanders searches the jungle around Seria by boat for rebels in hiding and for arms and ammunition (1962)
The troops will be living in the jungle for the next month, training in heat that has exceeded 35 degrees. Learning to use their environment to their advantage and prove why the British army is such a effective, adaptable fighting force - able to deploy and operate anywhere in the world.
Major Alex Mills, Officer Commanding Y Company RRF said:"This is a once in a generation opportunity for my guys. The experience we have gained out here has been invaluable. It's been hard work, but the guys have relished the opportunity to learn the techniques to operate, survive and fight in this unforgiving terrain."
More:
British Troops to Remain in Brunei for Another Five Years
