Page 20 - Bugle Spring 2024

3 RIFLES
Op INTERFLEX
Ukrainian trainees being taught CQB
B Company have been on Op INTERFLEX in Warcop Training Centre over the last few months, delivering iterations of a four-week infantry skills training package for the Armed Force of Ukraine.
The first week consists of weapons handling lessons and drills as well as their first exercise, which focuses on basic fieldcraft and fireteam attacks, laying the foundation for their tactical acumen. The second week is where they learn basic medical skills required by frontline soldiers, which is delivered by medics from the RAMC. Following that they put their new skills to the test by conducting simulated, but realistic, casualty scenarios.
Week three is their tactical exercise on Catterick Training Area, where they are taught how to conduct section and platoon attacks and taken through basic tactics. This is very rewarding as we have been able to watch them think on the ground and execute some excellent attacks. They then conduct their third exercise which takes them through offensive and defensive fighting in trenches.
The fourth and final week consists of urban training in Whinny Hill Urban Village, starting with section room clearance and ending in platoon attacks with multiple complex building clearances.
Not only has it been an honour for B Company to work alongside the Ukrainians, but it has also been a great opportunity for the Riflemen and junior ranks to step up and deliver training which hopefully saves many lives back in Ukraine.
LCpl Walsh
Ukrainian trainees conducting a raid
As the year draws to a close, C Company’s time spent at Warcop and Wathgill is a source of pride for every member of the team, whether they contributed for a week or a year. Each one can take pride in knowing they played a crucial role in defending Ukraine during what is arguably the most significant land war of our generation.
The gratitude expressed by the Ukrainian forces was palpable, and their dedication to training, that also tested the resilience of our Riflemen, was evident. From swimming through trenches for clearance operations to enduring adverse weather conditions, the Ukrainian soldiers applied themselves wholeheartedly.
The passion displayed by everyone involved, both within the British ranks and among our Ukrainian counterparts, was unmistakable.
Whether utilizing the Urban training facility in Whinney Hill or navigating the dense woodblocks of Cumbria, every training environment provided a welcome respite from the relentless rain we faced.
C Company Riflemen demonstrated adaptability and innovation in the wide array of lessons delivered. While doctrinally sound in teaching essential skills, we maintained an open mindset, always ready to incorporate lived lessons shared by the Ukrainian soldiers against the enemy.
The collaboration observed across all ranks was remarkable. Lessons gleaned from experiences in Bakhmut were seamlessly integrated with our tactical
approaches and fostered the development of both forces. This adaptive approach ensures that our training remains dynamic, continually evolving to address the evolving challenges posed by this unique conflict.
In conclusion, the collective efforts
of C Company during OP INTERFLEX symbolises a commitment to excellence in training and a profound dedication
to the defence of Ukraine. The enduring collaboration with our Ukrainian counterparts not only strengthens
our collective capabilities but also underscores the importance of shared experiences in shaping effective strategies for success in different theatres of operations.
Lt Harry Lamb
Ukrainian trainees in the field
20 RIFLES The Bugle
The fourth and final week consists of urban training in Whinny Hill Urban Village