March along the Strand: RTF 3 soldiers march past Townsville’s Strand as they prepare to deploy to Afghanistan.
A MORTAR section from 2RAR will enhance the capability of the RTF in Afghanistan.
Defence Minister Brendan Nelson announced on September 3 that the 10-man, 81mm mortar section would deploy to Afghanistan to provide offensive support to RTF operations.
“The 81mm mortars are renowned for the accuracy and effectiveness,” Dr Nelson said.
CO 2RAR Lt-Col Ben James said the soldiers were well prepared. “I’m very proud of the training conducted throughout the year and it means the soldiers are ready to deploy and contribute to the RTF 3 for force protection,” he said.
The deployment highlights the ADF’s continual review of the situation faced by soldiers deployed into operational areas and a focus on providing every force protection measure available to support their activities.
