The Concentration Phase of contingent XXIII of operation 'Support to Iraq' begins

Individual weapons training

The Concentration Phase of Contingent XXIII of Operation “Support to Iraq” (A/I, for its Spanish name Apoyo a Irak) began on October 13th, under the direction of the Melilla General Command. This phase marks the starting point of the final preparation of the contingent that will take part in this mission within the framework of Spain’s international commitments.

Throughout this stage, which will take place during October, the contingent will carry out an intensive program of activities aimed at personnel integration and cohesion, as well as the verification of equipment and operational procedures.

During this period, the objectives established in the training plan will be achieved, both in terms of administrative and logistical preparation prior to deployment, and in acquiring specific knowledge about the area of operations, as well as technical and specialized training on the systems and equipment that will be used during the mission.

The participation of the Melilla General Command in this mission is carried out through a tactical group formed on the basis of two companies of the Tercio “Gran Capitán,” 1st of La Legion, serving as a Force Protection Unit, under the command of a lieutenant colonel.

Additionally, a national support element is integrated, under the command of a major, with the 8th Engineers Regiment as the base unit for logistical support.

Physical training