Page 102 - RSDG Year of 2021 CREST

108 EAGLE AND CARBINE
Ex KHANJAR OMAN – Ex MUSANDAM FORT
Following the successful completion of the tactical phase of Ex Khanjar Oman, a capability-rich troop was mustered. We packed our bags and commenced a mammoth journey north from Duqm to the politi- cally sensitive and strategically important peninsula of Musandam. Fifteen hours on a coach were followed by an overnight voyage on RNOV Al Mubshir, which saw us arriving at Musandam as the sun rose. We were somewhat surprised to hear that the skiffs darting around the coastline were in fact Iranian smugglers going about their business, they of course evaporated into thin air when they realised Scotland’s Cavalry were in town.
After a brief photo opportunity - photos which went on to be published all over Omani media announcing the arrival of British troops in Musandam and the com- mencement of the joint training exercise ‘Musandam Fort 2021’ - we stepped off on the spectacular climb through the mountains of Musandam from Khasab Port up to Salhad Camp. This journey would prove to be one of the highlights of the exercise for many: a three-hour nail-biting road move of constant ascent, hair pin turns, a distinct lack of barriers between the
edge of the tracks and sheer drops accompanied by breathtaking views. Thanks to the efforts of the LAD, the Troop reached Salhad Camp in good order and commenced the integration phase of the exercise.
We were slightly hesitant when asked if we would like to join the Omani company, experts in operating in their mountainous environment, for a run through the hills. With an acute awareness that we had not conducted any formal PT for some 6 weeks, we nev- ertheless agreed to join them. Starting with an inter- esting warm up, inspiration for which was I think taken from the Eric Prydz ‘Call on Me’ music video, we then went on a gentle jog through the hills with the Omani’s singing their Regimental songs all the way - an enjoyable, if not slightly unusual, experience for all. Briefs from both the Musandam Security Force to us and our delivery of a brief on the Regiment to them followed. Capability demonstrations were next on the agenda, with Corporal Megahy and Lance Corporal McIlrath demonstrating Javelin, Lance Corporals Giles and McAdam demonstrating snipers and Sergeant Hutchison introducing the MSF troops to the Jackal platform. The integration phase concluded