ASPFOR XVII

ASPFOR XVII has just completed the relief of the previous Spanish task force, ASPFOR XVI, in Badghis (Afghanistan). The bulk of its troops come from the 6th Parachute Brigade “Almogávares” (known as BRIPAC). They work alongside the Helicopter Unit, from the Army Airmobile Force, and are supported by the Expeditionary Logistic Force, whose personnel comes from the 51st Logistic Support Group, with base in Burgos.

The Transfer of Authority took place on 5 July at the Spanish base of Qala-i-Naw, capital of the Badghis province. During the ceremony, Colonel Francisco Gan Pampols handed over command of the base to Colonel Pedro Rolán Araujo.

ASPFOR XVII is made up of 400 soldiers, who constitute the military component of the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), based in Badghis, and of the Quick Reaction Force (QRF), based in Herat.

This Spanish contingent is expected to stay in Afghanistan for four months. Its main tasks will be providing security to the detachment, carrying out escort tasks and supporting the provincial government and the districts in their efforts to achieve a safe, stable and democratic environment.