Hungarian government donates tanks to Iraqi Army

TAJI, IRAQ

11.25.2005

Courtesy Story

DVIDS Hub       

Sgt. Matthew Wester
3/1 AD PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq " Iraqi Soldiers were abuzz with activity preparing their freshly-painted tanks for a patrol Nov. 12.

The tanks arrived the previous day, donated by the Hungarian government to bolster the Iraqi Army's security operations northwest of Baghdad.

More than 70 T-72 main battle tanks were delivered to 2nd Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division. A private company in the United States, Defense Solutions, refurbished the tanks in Hungary, according to the company's website.

Iraqi tank commanders are pleased with the new equipment and are eager to use the new tanks in the field.

"I like these tanks because we have experience with them from the previous army," said Capt. Adel, commander of 2nd Company, 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Bde., 9th IA Div. "They are very strong and very fast. We will have a greater ability to face the enemy with these."

Adel said the vehicles were in very good condition and his men were excited to use them.

"They are very happy," he said. "They had a great feeling when they saw the tanks the first time. Some of them even kissed the tanks. The men are more confident. This is very, very important for us."

Adel said the tanks would be crucial in security operations during the upcoming elections in Iraq.

• Date Taken: 11.25.2005
• Date Posted: 11.25.2005 14:39
• Story ID: 3866
• Location: TAJI, IQ