Operations
LRRG LAD on Op MAKARA Op MAKARA forms part of ongoing British Operations in Mali. Op MAKARA
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ollowing Op ELWIN 5, the LAD would have 10 days to turn around the fleet of 72 prime movers in preparation for Op MAKARA 1. The rehab included 28 day inspections of all platforms, numerous second line repairs and a multitude of other repairs, maintenance and formal inspections. The team worked tirelessly to ensure all equipment was prepared, even the EME and ASM would dust off their coveralls and assist with several FOXHOUND pack lifts and engine changes. The target was met and the LRRG deployed with all required vehicle platforms for the operation. Op MAKARA was a Mobile Task Group (TG) led operation to reduce violence in remote areas of Sector East. Op MAKARA 1 saw the LRRG deliver a persistent presence in the important town of Tin Hama and understand Terrorist Armed Group (TAG) activity in the highly trafficked villages of Tassiga and Lelehoy. The ground was a mixture of dense vegetation, wadi networks and hard rocky plains which proved testing on all platforms. The A1 Echelon would establish a Leaguer location which both sub-units would then operate out of, conducting patrols in Tin Hama and Tahagla. Later phases of the operation would see the TG operate from the UN camp in Ansongo where patrols to Tassiga and Lelehoy would be
conducted. Throughout, sub-units would have organic Fitter Sections providing in and inter mission ES effect. Overall, the initial road move proved to be a success. The TG deployed in earnest to avoid the heat of the day, this saw us cover 70 Km, following the MSR to Ansongo camp. The FOXHOUND fleet proved to be difficult, however, the LAD was able to rectify all but one fault during the move to Ansongo. As the temperature increased (peaking to 42 degrees by 1400hrs), this caused additional issues with other platforms. The SV fleet experienced brake hub issues, largely down to the excessive temperatures and increased braking due to travelling through a multitude of small settlements, villages and markets. The daily HABOOB (dust storm) also proved to be a hindrance, coming from nowhere the TG was hit with visibility of 1-5 metres and winds of up to 50 knots. By the end of the road move, both hooks had casualty wagons and the EME looked like an umpa lumpa due to being hit with a dust storm in the 4th seat of a COYOTE. Not a good look. ‘Momentum is everything’ these were the chosen words of one of the commanders who would lead elements of the move to the TG Leaguer location. The route saw the TG follow the MSR south before breaking off cross country. After only 3Km cross country, the TG
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