28 Engr Regt (C-CBRN) LAD –Exercise FRIGATE VAPOUR

Scribe: Capt Swingler, OC LAD

Exercise FRIGATE VAPOUR was a CT-C level exercise aimed at validating a multicomponent C-CBRN Sqn and allowing the Regt to declare Full Operating Capability (FOC). Due to the nature of the unit being split over three geographically dislocated locations and the nature of the equipment, deploying a Fitter Section to support this multicomponent Sqn for the first time since the formation of the unit was a full LAD effort. Bringing together FUCHS and Pinzgauer for the first time from three locations to STANTA, the ES requirement for the exercise was significant and bringing together personnel from the three locations produced challenges which had to be quickly overcome. Overall, the exercise was a success with the Fitter Section working tirelessly to ensure validation and experimentation could take place; including the conduct of ES in a CBRN environment, a task unique to this LAD due to the nature of where the unit operates. Moving forward, this year the unit will once again conduct a CT-C exercise this time in Cyprus which will allow the Regt and the LAD to learn the lessons from Ex FRIGATE VAPOUR and project overseas for the first time.

Scribe: Cfn Evans, Class 3 VM

As a new Craftsman, Ex FRIGATE VAPOUR gave me the opportunity to get experience on new equipment that I’d never seen before, for example the FUCHS C-CBRN vehicle. During the exercise phase, I was involved in conducting ES within a CBRN environment, providing pack lifts whilst wearing 4R and Tyrex suits for protection. As our LAD within 28 Engineers is split between multiple locations the exercise played a part in building team cohesion allowing us to get to know other members of my unit and helping each other out with tasks. All together I enjoyed the exercise as it provided me with an opportunity to improve and therefore develop towards making each exercise after this one better, meaning we can work more effectively.

Scribe: Cfn Baumber, Class 2 VM

During Ex FRIGATE VAPOUR the REME took part in a C-CBRN ES phase. This was new challenge for some of the Cfn on the exercise and a new experience for me as a Cfn working in my respirator and suit. Conducting ES whilst wearing a respirator for an extended period becomes very uncomfortable. Alongside the respirator and suit, we wear Tyrex suits over the top to prevent any oils and lubes contaminating the CBRN suit layer. The Tyrex suits themselves felt like wearing a sweat suit. Once completing ES tasks within the CBRN environment, we assisted and conducted our own full decontamination drills utilising the guidance from Falcon Sqn. Decontaminated of personnel plus tools and equipment was something new I learned and enjoyed taking part in.

Living outdoors

Scribe: Cfn Johnston-Smalley, Class 2 VM

Exercise FRIGATE VAPOUR was a great experience for me. I got to do things that I do not usually get to do in my normal day to day working life. It was great for cohesion within both the LAD and the Regiment more widely, as we were able to work together rather than just in our separate locations where we live and work in camp. As this is a C-CBRN Regiment, we were able to carry out a CBRN phase scenario’s, working on the FUCHS. This was interesting for me because this is the only unit that can work within deeply contaminated conditions. This not only made me take more pride in my work, but its unique nature made the exercise far more exhilarating. Working on the FUCHS was an experience like no other, as this is the only Regiment in the British Army working with them. I was also supporting the Recovery Mechanic within the SV(R).

As a VM it was enjoyable to work with our Recovery Mechanic as I do not get to do this sort of work in my daily role. As the Commander, I had to navigate the Driver to the casualty location whilst in a high-pressure scenario which is also something I also have had limited experience with. As well as doing the recovery phase and ensuring the task was done efficiently and accurately, we then had to take the casualty vehicle to our camp. This meant that I had to navigate the Driver from the casualty location back to base. This was a challenging task as it was nightfall by this time, another barrier to an already intense scenario. This made the exercise feel realistic, as reality naturally never follows a set plan of action – being able to adapt is key. As a LAD, we worked well together overall, and we ensured all the vehicles were fit for purpose for the entirety of the exercise; which led to the smooth-running of Ex FRIGATE VAPOUR. During some quieter periods, we proactively engaged in refresher training consisting of map reading, CBRN drills, Camouflage and Concealment, Voice Procedure and Engineering Hygiene.