2 Cav Regt warms up for Croc 03
Fighting like eagles

Members of 2 Cav Regt disembark from an ASLAV during Ex Eagle’s Launch, held at the Mt Bundy Training Area recently. Photo provided by Capt Mark Doggett

By Capt Mark Doggett

MEMBERS of 2 Cav Regt recently shattered the dry season calm with live fire manoeuvre by day and night in preparation for Exercises Predator’s Gallop and Crocodile 03.

The exercise exploited the endurance, mobility and firepower of 2 Cav Regt’s ASLAVs with dry training at the inhospitable Mary River Station, followed by live fire gunnery at Mount Bundey Training Area.

The Mary River phase integrated air reconnaissance by a troop from 161 Recce Sqn to complement the ASLAVs’ own formidable surveillance capability and a squadron-level ground domination activity.

Next, two squadrons plus RHQ fought as friendly forces against a squadron-sized enemy force that attempted to penetrate the friendly surveillance screen.

The second day the friendly forces advanced while the enemy force attempted to deny the route and destroy HQ elements.

The regiment rolled straight into the live-fire phase at Mt Bundey with demanding patrol and troop battle runs, which allowed the patrol and troop leaders to manoeuvre their ASLAVs while the individual vehicle crews were tested on their gunnery and fire control.

The highlight of the live-fire was a squadron night ambush involving 14 ASLAVs, which exploited the ASLAVs’ stealth and world-best night-fighting capability.

CO 2 Cav Regt Lt-Col Tony Luke said that the exercise advanced 2 Cav Regt from crew and patrol manoeuvre through to regimental manoeuvre, and tested command and control.

“This exercise has been a successful culminating point for our troop and squadron training. We are now ready to move onto regiment-controlled squadron live fire manoeuvre,” he said.

“This exercise has been an excellent opportunity to train our troops for upcoming operational rotations in Iraq and prepare the rest of the regiment for operations anywhere we are tasked.”

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