Ex AUSTERE WOLF

Ex AUSTERE WOLF 22 saw RLC personnel at the centre of the first Joint Combined Amphibious Landing in at least a decade, involving 1,200 troops (reserve and regular), ships, vessels, landing craft, helicopters and FRG4 Typhoons from the Navy, Army and the RAF. Alongside a Navy Task Group deployed on Op ACHILLEAN, the exercise saw Commando Forces seize a beachhead for Theatre Entry, with the Commando Logistic Regiment then conducting a Relief in Place with the Theatre Enabling Group (TEG) from 104 Theatre Sustainment (Th Sus) Brigade, led by 17 Port and Maritime Regiment as the OF4 TEG Headquarters. The TEG then established a base of operations alongside Sappers from 8 Engineer Brigade, to build a camp able to sustain 500 people.

The aim was to test Tri-Service Littoral capability, preparing us for scenarios from war fighting to disaster relief. With the events in Ukraine, there was a clear messaging opportunity for the UK that it can deliver rapid effect from the sea anywhere in the world, working in a contested and austere environment. The real difference in this exercise was the focus on testing the Theatre Enabling Group, or “Training to Support”. The requirement to arrive with nothing but what you bring with you, establish a base, and then project your forces inland was challenging but immensely rewarding for soldiers from across the Corps. The full logistic spectrum from the TEG was represented with Service Personnel from 17RLC, 9RLC, 29RLC, 165RLC, 162RLC, 152RLC, 167RLC and 2OSG covering capabilities to include port and maritime, fuel, transportation, divers, movements, communications, postal and chefs. It absolutely showcased the fantastic range of capability The RLC offers, and how it can integrate with forces from across Defence.

17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC With an augmented OF4 TEG Headquarters with SMEs pulled in from across multiple TEG capabilities and multi-national

Exercise AUSTERE WOLF 22

partners, and with reach across all three Services to exploit opportunities, this exercise was one of the largest and most complex exercises ever to be conducted by the Regt. The exercise began with a contested beachhead being seized by Commando Forces on 3 Oct 22. 17 RLC divers supported the initial sub-surface clearance of Akrotiri Mole by 24 Cdo Engr Regt to ensure that any potential threats and obstructions had been removed, whilst also responding to live taskings such as the inspection of the existing infrastructure and fuel pipeline. Once the port was deemed clear, the conditions were set for the inload of cargo to begin. In just three days, and in over 35˚C heat, 17 RLC Port Operators, Mariners, Marine Engineers and VSS offloaded the Roll on Roll off (RoRo) at anchor, with support from six helicopters and 14 vessels and landing craft, to deliver over 1,562 pieces of vital equipment from MV HURST POINT. The discharge of the shipping then enabled the rest of the exercise to establish itself, including 17 RLC’s Operational Hygiene (OH) Troop, with the Laundry Transportable (LT) and Personnel Shower Portable (PSP) units, which were used to keep more than 800 exercising troops clean and morale high throughout the duration of the exercise.

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC – Capt Lise-Lotte Hunter With the RoRo already discharged by 17 RLC and all TEG elements ashore, 165 RLC was able to conduct a formal hand over and launch straight into a seven-question planning cycle for future tasks whilst Port Operators conducted port and beach recce training, and the Maritime trades were able to operate the MEXE FLOTE and vessels. Training complete, the SHQ delivered a full set of orders and a ROC drill to then execute a Hasty

8 Combined maritime and air assets

unloaded 1,562 pieces of vital equipment from MV HURST POINT

8 1,200 troops (reserve and regular),

ships, vessels, landing craft, helicopters and FRG4 Typhoons from Navy, Army and the RAF took part in Ex AUSTERE WOLF

Logistic Beach Unit operation against the tactical scenario. With the integration of a regular Troop from 17 RLC into the 165 ORBAT and a formal HOTO of equipment, the importance of close-knit working relationships through Reserve/Regular pairing was evident.

Whilst taking over Port and Maritime operations, 165 RLC also bolstered the wider exercise real life support with two chefs and a small G4 team including the newly appointed Reserve RQMS who continued to sustain the exercise until the last day in theatre. With 11 personnel from the OH Squadron, 165 RLC was able to conduct a Relief in Place on both the LT and PSP units, providing much needed home comforts after four days of unpredictable thunderstorms, high winds and flooding effecting the tented camp. The Regt’l Padre, Earl, was also on hand to raise morale, and conducted a joyful field service on an incredibly wet day.

9 Regiment RLC – Lt Connor Norris 66 Fuel and General Transport Squadron deployed onto the exercise as part of the fuel group, linking with Royal Engineers from 516 STRE (BP) who had constructed a ship to shore fuel pipeline. The deployed squadron was comprised of two troops; Petroleum Troop and Bulk Liquids Troop. To support the fuel demand of the exercise, the Petroleum Troop constructed a Primary Bulk Fuel Installation (PBFI) and an Enhanced Storage Module (ESM), with the support of 516 STRE (BP) to commission the site. Due to the Cyprus heat, the Sqn resorted to constructing the site predominantly at night, to avoid the harsh climate during the day. This provided a fantastic training opportunity for the troop to construct the site in darkness with only the use of a head torch to operate. Once commissioned, the Sqn received 30,000ltrs of diesel into the PBFI, ready to be distributed to various vital components of the exercise. The responsibility of delivery was handled by Bulk Liquids Troop, with the use of a Close Support Tanker (CST) and a Unit Support Tanker (UST). Additionally, the Troop had the responsibility of delivering potable water. This was to ensure hygiene was kept to the highest standard to avoid any illnesses passing through the camp. The exercise housed almost 1,000 troops, which required up to 40,000ltrs of water to support 17 RLC’s OH Team. The Sqn conducted a smooth handover/takeover to its reserve counterpart, 400 Squadron (152 Regiment RLC) during the exercise which allowed further training value to be achieved in an austere environment.

8 Royal Engineers from 516 STRE (BP) constructed a ship to shore fuel pipeline

8 17 P&M Regt divers supported the

initial sub-surface clearance of Akrotiri Mole by 24 Cdo Engr Regt

The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations Membership

If you are keen to enhance your network, join a group of like-minded professionals who share a common purpose, or just catch-up with lost friends and acquaintances, why not join The RLC Association or one of The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations? If interested, please contact the Veterans, Families and Civil Engagement Officer (VFCEO) - Victoria Parkes at: Email - VFCEO@rhqtherlc.org.uk Telephone - 01962 887785 Alternatively, you can download the Membership Registration Form from the RLC website. https://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/who-we-are/the-rlc-association/

The Defence School of Transport

Visits

DCLPA - In September, Brig Mike Caldicott CBE, Commandant DCLPA, conducted his final visit to the Defence School of Transport (DST).

The Brigadier met with students in their newly refurbished accommodation block, toured the ‘Eco Garden’ and Gurkha Messing Village. He later met with Lt Col Bruce Ekman, the CO of 25 Regt and the Course Design Team, to discuss the latest developments for the Log Foundation Course which is due to be delivered at DST in the future.

The Defence Medical Academy

– The Defence Medical Academy (DMA) recently partnered with DST to develop its new training package "Extrication from Military Vehicles." Aided by casualty and rescuer volunteers from 25 Regt RLC, the DMA team placed "casualties" in EPLS, RODET and a Civilian Armoured Vehicle. The sheer weight, height, workable space and access points are all issues that a medic rescuer needs to understand.

SIO Paramedic, Alastair Richards, who developed the course, said: "DST was the obvious partner due to its diverse range of vehicles, facilities and engaging people. Using the relevant vehicles was key to a successful photo shoot [required to create the training package]."

The Fijian Rugby League Team In September, DST welcomed the Fiji National Rugby League team ahead of its participation in the Rugby League World Cup.

DST proved to be an ideal environment for the team and saw them take full advantage of the fantastic on-site strength and conditioning suite. The team formally opened the recently built Fijian Vanua at Ladysmith House, providing an opportunity for members of the Armed Forces to meet many of their sporting idols – a once in a lifetime occasion for some. A special mention goes to SSgt Alofi for building and delivering the ‘Lovo,’ it was a thoughtful touch and not lost on the guests!

The team was also present to welcome the Rugby League World Cup trophies - part of the National

Commandant: Colonel Chris Henson QGM COS: Lt Col Ben Aumônier RLC GSM: WO1 M Hickey

8 The Fiji Rugby League team train in DST’s strength and conditioning unit

8 Col Henson QGM opens the new

Gurkha Messing Village

8 Guy Martin filming ‘Power Trip’ at DST

Lottery Trophies Tour – which attracted a great deal of media attention. This was an exceptional visit where DST had the opportunity to see a world-class team in training.

The Gurkha Messing Village

Commandant DST has officially opened the new Gurkha Messing Hut, a fantastic facility for the large population of Nepalese personnel based at DST.

The facility at Ladysmith House allows everyone to get involved in cooking classes and to socialise in a unique outdoor environment. It provides a wonderful opportunity to exchange feelings and thoughts with friends, families and colleagues.

Gurkha Kaida, as it is known, has been practised since first enlistment of Gurkhas in the British Army and plays a significant role in the Brigade of Gurkhas. It brings a positive impact on operational effectiveness, enhances motivation and strengthens cohesiveness within the team.

The Guy Martin Documentary

Part of Isle of Man TT racer and presenter, Guy Martin's Power Trip a documentary series about how Britain will generate its electricity in the future – was filmed at DST. The documentary includes how the MoD has adopted solar power. Under instruction, Guy was challenged on DST’s off-road course and spoke with Major Dave Owens from Army

Basing and Infrastructure, about the Army’s first solar farm. Guy also carried out vehicle maintenance in the Babcock workshop, which is powered by electricity produced from the solar farm. The parting shot sees Guy chauffeuring the Commandant in one of our six electric powered buggies. The series aired in November but is still available on C4’s All 4.

BioBlitz & Eco Enhancements

To development a greater awareness of the species that live on or visit DST’s training area, the conservation team has conducted three weekend BioBlitz events.

Naturalists were invited to take part in the study, which proved remarkably successful in increasing the species list; 200 being added in just one event. The project is planned to take around five years to complete.

As part of Project PROMETHEUS, the Conservation Team, Training Area Team, SO3 Estates and STMS have successfully launched the new tern

raft. The mink-proof tern raft is a breeding platform and safe roost for birds. It predominantly attracts Oystercatchers.

As part of the new Eco enhancements and to reduce DST’s carbon footprint, the school has taken delivery of four more electric buggies, taking the fleet to six. You can learn more about these by watching Guy Martin’s Power Trip on C4 All 4.

Rewarding excellence The Defence Road Safety Awards

- On the 5 Oct 22, DST was extremely honoured to be crowned winners of the annual DRS award and receive the coveted Rose Bowl Trophy.

The school fought off stiff competition, but the judging panel said that they were impressed with the way that the road safety team had targeted its many projects, including strict camp speed limits, segregating and channelling green fleet movement, additional road lighting, safety assessments and grading of the cross-country training area. DST’s submission also demonstrated the high level of engagement with local authorities and agencies to improve awareness of road safety within the local community.

Conductors’ Coin - WO1 (Cdr) Mark Underdown presented Conductor’s Coins to Cpl's Bolton and Middleton of 25 Regt RLC and Cpl Tennant of DST Establishment Support.

The coins were to reward them for their work ‘over-and-above’ what is expected. The Conductor’s Coin is presented to the worthiest and deserving candidates within the RLC Driver Communications Specialist trade.

Sport

SHMC - In August, DST hosted the Sheffield & Hallamshire Motor Club,

8 British Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Champion

Sgt Fleming RM

stage rally. Drivers navigated several designated routes around DST’s impressive training estate, racing in vehicles ranging from 1.0 litre hatchbacks with less than 100bhp, through to high-tech four-wheel drive cars with over 300bhp. The rally was a round of numerous regional championships, including the Conningham Cup Tri-Service Rally Championship, where the Army, Navy and RAF compete against each other.

This is the third time DST has hosted the event, which in 2021 was voted ‘The Best in the Region’ by its entrants.

British Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Champion - Sgt Mark Fleming, a Royal Marines Instructor at DST, has received the prestigious title of British National Middle Weight Champion (under 82.3kg - Blue Belt) in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) after competing at the British Open Championships, held in June 2022.

Sgt Fleming’s Officer Commanding, Maj Pete Curtis MBE RM, is immensely proud of his achievements. “It’s great to know we have a recognised British Champion in our ranks. Seeing our personnel achieving remarkable things outside of the Service, representing the Royal Marines, DST and wider Armed Forces as they do so, is just brilliant. Given the dedication Sgt Fleming shows to BJJ, I am absolutely thrilled that he now has a great title, and medal, to show for his efforts.”

Sgt Fleming is now hoping to inspire others to find a love for the sport and has started a BJJ Club at DST.

York Dragon Boat Race - A team from DST took part in the York Dragon Boat Race, raising funds for several charities including SSAFA and the Charity for civil servants. The team took part in three races; placing a final overall position of 17 out of 36 teams and winning the Merlin Cup for the fastest Armed Service team. A valiant effort on one of the hottest days of the year.

DST is recruiting for a variety of Civil Service roles throughout the year. To receive regular updates, please register your details at Civil Service Jobs.

8 DRS Awards: L – R: Mr David King

(Director DHS & EP), WO2 J Price, Sgt R Wright, Col C Henson QGM (Comdt), SSgt A Kirkcaldy, Lt Col T Ireland MBE (SO1 Estb SP), WO1 (GSM) M Hickey

8 Conductor’s Coin: L – R: Cpl Tennant,

Cpl Bolton, WO1 (Conductor) Mark Underdown, Cpl Middleton

By WO1 (SSM) P Squire-Dean

Having assumed the appointment of the Postal and Courier Services Head of Trade in Jun 22, it was not only a great privilege, but also shows the trust bestowed in me to take the trade forward for the soldiers of tomorrow. The current climate for the trade is somewhat turbulent due to the implications of the proposed Future Soldier ‘25 structure. Even with these challenges ahead of us, I still see total dedication and professionalism from all our Postal Courier Operators not just in support of UK tasks, but across the globe on operations, exercises and Firm Base locations/Land Regional Hubs.

With fewer travel restrictions around the globe, the initial three months of my tenure have seen an increase in the physical delivery of PCS LSA&Is. Some of the locations audited/visited were Gibraltar, BATUS, Op CABRIT and Nepal. This was not only a chance for me to conduct the much-delayed quality assurance audits on BFPOs, but also provided a great opportunity to see first-hand, the continuous work efforts and proficient level of service our PCS Ops are currently providing to the wider MoD. In addition, it was a chance to speak to our PCS Ops on a more personal level and assure them with the various questions they posed about the Future Soldier structure.

Future Soldier Working Group With the Future Soldier structure implementation well underway, Col Colin Munce MBE (PCS Trade Proponent) now chairs a working group with all stakeholders across various formations. The intent of the group is to ensure the right people are making the right decisions, to ensure the sustainability of the trade. After each working group, the Comd PCS WO produces a newsletter that details the background and provides the latest decisions and most up to date information for all PC Ops across the globe.

PCS Trade Course Review The trade is currently at the five-year cycle for a full PCS trade course review. This is a review WO1 (Cdr) Hutchinson started working towards alongside the DCLPA LSTW PCS instructors in 2020. We now find ourselves at a position where the Class 3, 2 & 1 Course Role Performance Statements have been agreed and the Formal Training Statements are now in process. All three trade courses will be residential from training year 2023/24 onwards (noting the Cl2 was a Record of Achievement skills-based learning), providing more time for students to use technical equipment, delve into training and become more proficient with the IT systems we currently use, including Postal and Courier Electronic Records and Horizon on Line.

PCS Trade Gathering 29 Regiment RLC kindly hosted and organised a PCS trade gathering in May 22. This was an opportunity for all PCS Ops from across the globe to convene in one location and provide updates and evolution on their area of responsibility, in turn showcasing some of the unique locations we have a service community and Defence output to support.

Postal & Courier

8 Colonel Munce MBE and WO1

Squire-Dean, Head of Trade briefing at the trade gathering

During the first day of the gathering, all formations gave a brief to the wider PCS fraternity, the main focus being the Future Soldier Structure. The Trade Proponent, Col Munce MBE opened the gathering with a detailed presentation providing the most up to date and relevant information on the trade ORBAT and intent of our Future Soldier structure post March 2025.

PCS Sixes tournament Due to global events over the last two years, the annual PCS Sixes football tournament has been postponed but with the lessening of restrictions, we were fortunate to hold this year’s event. The tournament took place after the trade gathering at 29 Regt RLC and over the course of the day, we saw a total of nine teams compete for the Bryan Marshman Trophy. The final was a hard-fought game between 69 Sqn and 80 Sqn, with the overall winners being 80 Sqn. This was a very well organised and executed event that brought the trade together and I would like to openly pass on my thanks to all personnel who were involved.

8 PCS Sixes

winners, 80 Sqn

Picture courtesy of Mk Artistic Works

By WO1 M Baxter

Mariner

Now a year in post as Mariner Head of Trade, it only seems like weeks ago that I wrote to you detailing an action-packed year. Another year, another update and what a storm (excuse the pun) it’s been. Firstly, a thank you to all “Sail Army” specialists who have made this article very easy to write with all your hard work and dedication both on the home and far banks.

At the helm As a trade we have been working hard on a policy re-form; historically we have had little policy or legislation guidance from the Top Level Budget (TLB) due to lack of understanding of the Maritime area, this meant we followed Royal Navy policy being the lead TLB for all things Maritime. This caused confusion across the board from compliance and platform management to capability ownership, development and procurement. Fast forward two years and we now have the Chief Maritime Officer (CMO) driving our ship in Field Army, evolving our capability and delivering the policy we sorely needed to remain current and relative. The long-awaited Army Command Standing Order (ACSO) 1203 Army Maritime Policy is now at consultation and should reach first publication early 2023.

With real headway and positive development of our own policies and doctrine, coupled with the RLC Strategy, this is now driving forward our work with training and qualifications, including professional standards. With a clear view of the future, the Mariner CEG has a clear and obvious depth of knowledge which has never been fully exploited in the area of professional qualification which we are now addressing.

Whilst we currently issue some limited certification from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Power Boat scheme, with the full support of the Corps we are working hard to implement the full RYA Power Boat and Motor Cruising Scheme up to Yacht Master Coastal. The Royal Navy is also making waves to introduce pathways to Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) qualifications which is exciting news for our professional Mariners.

From the decks Our soldiers have been extremely busy across the globe from the Fjords of Norway to the blue skies of the eastern Mediterranean, whilst also maintaining our home tasks like supporting the future coxswain training with DCLPA with some community engagement thrown in to boot.

After a long break, exercise COLD RESPONSE returned, supporting 3 Commando Brigade and the amphibious task group in their arctic warfare wader package in the beautiful but cold Fjords of Norway with a full RLC Det deployed including a Combat Support Boat and MEXEflote raft.

The MEXEflote section have also become regular visitors to Cyprus as they supported the Royal Engineers (RE) with exercise PINESTICK in the first yearly quarter. PINESTICK is an annual exercise which consists of multiple building and infrastructure improvement projects in British Forces Cyprus (BFC) headed up by the highly capable RE tradesman. MEXE assisted by delivering troops, equipment and materials across Tunnel Beach (for BFC Beach Club building upgrades) which was otherwise inaccessible to heavy machinery and vehicles by road.

Quarter four saw 17 RLC deploy on Ex AUSTERE WOLF which has been an epic undertaking deploying 104 Bde overseas, proofing the ship to shore and bulk fuels pipeline systems capability for Defence (more to follow on this). We also have one MEXE and CSB currently deployed on Mounts Bay as part of Littoral Strike group, following and supporting the small fleet around the Med stopping in some delightful spots such as Italy and Cyprus.

Saving lives at sea Since my last update, our boat crews have also been involved with two real time rescues at sea. One whilst exercising in waters near Inverness, which saw our Army Work Boat respond to an emergency mayday from the Coastguard detailing one person being swept out to sea. The second was in local waters around Southampton when a small dinghy sailor got into trouble when he capsized his boat to the point he could not self-right himself and slowly drifted into the busy shipping lane. Both cases showed true the dedication and professionalism of the crews.

8 A Cold start building the MEXE off the

LSDA in Norway

By WO1 Samuel Korankye

Most Petroleum Operator (Pet Op) fuel training exercises in the UK do not use a significant quantity of bulk fuel. As such, opportunities for Pet Ops to handle large quantity of fuel are rare. QLLEX 23 offers a chance to rectify this short fall. Most importantly, Petroleum Troops are not routinely deploying on fuel training events with NATO connection kits. I hope to fix that by making QLLEX a routine exercise for the trade.

The QLLEX is an annual premier fuel and water validation exercise conducted throughout CONUS (seven locations in different states) involving the US Army Reg, Res & NG. There has been limited UK involvement since 2015 focussing on British Army Reservists.

The aspiration is for regular and reserve personnel from The RLC and RE to partake in future QLLEX to test, practice and develop interoperability operations beyond theoretical notions. Fuel interoperability and sustainability must be reviewed and considered if the UK/US are going to operate coherently and effectively when supporting operations at scale,

Petroleum Operator

Regular Petroleum Operators to participate in Future Quartermaster Liquid Logistic Exercise in June 2023 (QLLEX) 23

achieving allied tactical, operational, and strategic objectives in the ‘Fight Tonight’ priority area of sustainment.

A team of six fuel SMEs and one RE WO conducted a visit to the QLLEX 22 from 11-18 June 2022 with the focus on reigniting relationships and developing the interoperability opportunities the QLLEX provides. Post QLLEX 22, it was determined that future UK participation in this event should exploited and post pandemic, QLLEX 23 will be this first event that UK fuel specialists will be able to tangibly re-engage with and participate in.

From 13-16 October 2022, 354 QM GP conducted an Initial Planning Workshop in Columbus, for all exercising Bns and intercalators. CPWO Fd Army Log Sp Branch and 1(UK)XX Fuel WO attended the workshop with the intent of creating a fuel interoperability training event. The aim is to deploy 1 BFI TP and PLT Lab embedded within a US Army QM Bn in order to provide a skilled workforce to train on and operate common US Army fuel pipeline and fuel storage systems.

I hope QLLEX will both formalise the relationship with the US Army and more importantly help to develop human, technical and procedural interoperability with our US counterparts.

Apprenticeship Scheme/upskilling Currently the Pet Op CEG is aligned to conduct the Pearson TQ Driver LGV Apprenticeship which is a Driver scheme. The RLC are introducing a bespoke Pet Op Apprenticeship Scheme to aid with the upskilling of personnel and to enhance retention within the trade. The Scheme is at an advance stage in the discussion between the RLC Whole Development Team and the Pearson Group.

8 QLLEX - Members of 92F offloading

metal pipe to start the construction of a four-mile pipeline

8 A portable bund is used to protect the

environment from spillage

By Pte Norris, 19 Tank Transporter Squadron

On 31 Jan 22 my troop and I (414 D – Troop) deployed on a Sqn exercise to Barton Stacey. The following day, we received the order… “End Ex”. This was well before it was due. Upon returning to the Sqn at Bulford we were all unsure of what had happened that caused our early return. At 22:00 that evening the OC briefed the deployed soldiers of the Sqn and informed us that we are now on five days NTM to Germany.

After this, we had a frantic three days preparing not only our own kit, but also preparing the vehicles. A task that the REME worked tirelessly to complete. We had to ensure that all CES for each vehicle was fully serviceable and everyone worked long hours to make this possible.

At 22:00 on 3 Feb 22 we deployed and began the long drive over to Sennelager in Germany. Saying goodbye to our families was difficult as at this time we didn’t know when we were due to return from Germany or what would happen.

Due to COVID-19 measures, we had to isolate in our rooms and conduct COVID testing upon our arrival in Germany.

After isolating we received orders from both the OC and the Troop Commander – informing us that we were moving heavy and light armour for the Royal Welsh and RTR Battle Groups to reinforce the armoured presence in Estonia.

This consisted of 63-tonne Challenger 2 Main battle tanks, TITAN Bridge Layers, Bulldogs and Warrior IFVs. The loads were broken down into four border crossings and refuelling was via the CST on route.

The first leg was to Poland DPTA

Op IRON SURGE

A newly qualified Driver Tank Transporter Operator’s perspective

8 The loads included MBTs, IFVs, bridge

layers and recovery vehicles

– unfortunately due to the route selection by the officials, this added a further 300km on to an already lengthy drive. Communication across the convoy faced great difficulty due to the PED policy across the countries. After Poland we continued to Lithuania staying at an airfield for our rest before moving into Latvia. After arriving in Latvia we moved through to Estonia.

When we arrived in Estonia we were met by Carmen’s Troop – 19 Squadron’s DTTOs in Estonia. After arriving in Estonia, our journey did not end there; we still had to move the trucks to the port for return to the UK whilst deployed personnel got a flight back.

Due to the convoy, we were sleeping in our trucks for the majority of the deployment and we had limited facilities.

We travelled 2,020 miles in 28 days and maintained a 100% vehicle availability from start to finish – a significant achievement considering the miles we covered. Op IRON SURGE was an amazing experience for myself as a newly qualified A3, giving me the opportunity to show my training and improve my skills.

8 An airfield in Lithuania was used as a

rest stop

8 Op IRON SURGE saw 414 D-Troop drive 2,020 miles in 28 days