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drums of the Fusiliers, alongside a few shared beers in the cook- house.
In late January, the Battery carried out more live firing (Ex CHEQ- UERED STORM) on the northern edge of the training area. Despite temperatures dropping to -20°C, the guns performed impressively once again, providing a range of effects for the OP end, whilst February saw the pinnacle exercise of Op CABRIT 13: Ex WINTER CAMP when the Battle Group came together to put into practice all the skills developed over the deployment.
March marked a significant transition from Op CABRIT 13 to Op CABRIT 14. We began working alongside the 5 RIFLES Battle Group and saw a changeover of our French colleagues. Most importantly, spring saw the end of the Tac Gp’s deployment on Op CABRIT 13, with the Guns remaining for three more months. Bidding farewell to the FSTs, the Gun Gp welcomed in Chestnut Troop Tac Group in March beginning the cycle of exercises again, this time in far balmier weather on Op CABRIT 14, providing an opportunity to work alongside the 5 RIFLES BG and our new French colleagues.
A highlight of this period was undoubtedly the fantastic urban training package put on by the Battery’s resident urban SME, SSgt L Taylor. Making prime use of the recently constructed Rabasaare Training Area, SSgt Taylor planned, organised, and ran an engaging training package for the troops. Lessons in operat- ing in the urban environment, CQB, and the establishment of a gun position in urban settings were all covered before the exer- cise culminated in a platoon-level assault of the training village. Ex URBAN STRIKE was truly a highlight for many soldiers whilst deployed.
1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery
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