ASPFOR XVI

ASPFOR XVI has just completed the relief of the previous Spanish task force, ASPFOR XV, and is now in charge of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Badghis province (Afghanistan). The bulk of its troops come from the 1st Mountain Light Infantry Brigade “Aragón”.

The Transfer of Authority took place on 1 May 2007 at the Spanish base of Qala-i-Naw, capital of the Badghis province. It was presided over by Brigadier General Antonio Satta, commander of ISAF Regional Command-West, and by General Jaime Coll Benejam, commander of the 1st Mountain Light Infantry Brigade “Aragón”. During the ceremony, Colonel Francisco Gan Pampols was handed over command of the base by Colonel Pedro Rolán Araujo, who was awarded the “NATO Medal”.

ASPFOR XVI 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.

The Brigade “Aragón” works alongside the Helicopter Unit, from the 3rd Manoeuvre Helicopter Battalion of Agoncillo (La Rioja), and is supported by the Expeditionary Logistic Force, whose personnel come mainly from the 41st Logistic Support Group, with base in Zaragoza.

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.