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deployment on the United Nations Multi-Dimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission to the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). ZAMBATT delivers peace support operations in the north of the country, with its primary mandate being the protection of civilians. The training audience was made up of over 1000 Zambian soldiers, ranging in rank from private to Lieutenant Colonel and varying in expe- rience from recruits fresh out of training to veterans with multiple tours of the Central African Republic under their belt. The team delivered a four-week pack- age covering a variety of skills including patrolling, navigation, counter-IED, first aid and the orders process. Additionally, there was a significant amount of defence engagement activity. The team attended the British High Commission’s coronation event as the sole British military representatives. They also briefed United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr Jean-Pierre Lacroix, on the UK’s contribution to Peace Support Operations throughout Africa. The enthusiasm and willingness to learn from the Zambian soldiers made the experience highly enjoyable for the team and all returned to the UK with a greater understanding of the role UN peacekeepers play in maintaining human security throughout Africa.
A Coy with elements of I Coy also found themselves in the southern hemisphere but in slightly cooler climes with a deployment as the Falkland Islands ‘resident infantry company’ on Operation FIRIC. This 3-month deployment required a busy period of preparatory activity, followed by a varied deployment that included engaging with Falkland Islanders, working with the Falkland Islands Defence Force and training on some of the most professionally challenging live firing ranges in the world. HMS Medway, a Batch 2 River-class offshore patrol vessel, also provided a rare opportunity to operate alongside the ‘senior service’. With a Platoon embarked, the Royal Navy ship transported the Riflemen to remote parts of the islands, otherwise only accessible by helicopter. Patrols were launched ashore via ridged raider craft, allowing them to experience the vast remoteness of the islands. It was a universally popular deployment, with many asking to be in consideration for next year’s deployment as soon as they got back!
In July, and this time with only 2 weeks’ notice, summer leave was once again cancelled for the second year running as the battalion was deployed on Operation INTERFLEX to train Ukrainians for their war of survival against the Russian aggressors. The operation provided a humbling experience that allowed our jun- ior commanders, most of whom have not experienced conflict, to demonstrate the professionalism and expertise that make us a reference Army for so many. Supported by Army Reservists from across the country, B, C & I Coy worked to improve the lethality, survivability and fighting spirit of our Ukrainian partners; the latter of which did not need much encouragement. In doing so, we learnt a lot and I am certain are a better battalion for it. Although based in Hampshire, the six-month deployment felt just as expeditionary as previous operational deployments.
Even with a battalion dispersed across both hemispheres and the Irish Sea, we also managed to send two teams on Exercise SUNDA PATROL in Brunei, a
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