Multi-National Division-South East Public Affairs

Story by Tyler Maulding

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – Soldiers with the Iraqi army's 10th Division conducted a Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise near Forward Operating Base Gary Owen, April 19.

The CALFX demonstrated the Iraqi army's capabilities in protecting its citizens and borders. After nearly a year of mortar and fire support, as well as Military Operations in Urban Terrain training from U.S. forces, Iraqi commandos used the CALFX as an opportunity to test and improve their skills in a complex assault on a small training compound.

The exercise began with Iraqi fire support specialists calling in a Multi-Launch Rocket System rocket and a 155 mm Excalibur rocket on the compound; followed by two AH-46D Longbow Apache Attack Helicopters assaulting the compound using 30 mm guns and rockets.

Following the initial strike, Iraqi soldiers executed a helicopter-borne air insertion. Then, using tactical movement formations, they advanced on foot toward the compound.

The soldiers established a perimeter around the compound and began engaging targets. After an initial wave of fire, including several rocket propelled grenades, assault vehicles positioned to provide cover fire while the soldiers cleared and secured the buildings using MOUT tactics. The soldiers also demonstrated casualty evacuation techniques by extracting a simulated casualty.

After clearing and securing the initial objective, the soldiers advanced to secure several smaller buildings on the far side of the complex. Once at a safe distance Iraqi fire support specialists called in nearly 50 mortar rounds.

Senior Iraqi army leaders were pleased with the training.

"It was a good exercise for us," said Staff Brig. Gen. Jabar, 10th Division deputy commander, Iraqi Army.

Iraqi soldiers called on coalition forces to provide combat air assets and some munitions.

"They did outstanding," said Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, Multi-National Division - South commander. "We have an agreement with the Iraqi government to provide support when they need it and today we did with the attack helicopters and precision munitions but they did all the rest of the exercise."

Close air support completed the final phase of the exercise. The Apaches came in for another assault followed by two F-16's; each dropping one 500-pound bomb.

Associated Images

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