An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 17 The reoccupation of the United Nations Positions (UNP) and Observations Posts (OP) in the Area of Separation (AOS) and AOL is a deemed as priority for the mission. The first post to be searched and cleared was UNP 32, which is located within the AOS. The reoccupation of UNP 32 was a decisive condition in the implementation of the incremen- tal return strategy to Bravo Side operations. It was essen- tial that all potential hazards, such as Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) or Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) and mines were identified and removed. UNDOFs current capacity to conduct the required clearance operation presented the 58 Inf Gp with an opportunity to effectively utilise its ESSC and EOD capability. The 58 Inf Gp ESSC team consists of ten Corps of Engi- neers personnel. This is broken down into one Officer, three NCOs and six Privates. The team comprises of eight ESSC positions and two camp technicians. All personnel must be ESSC qualified. The safety and security of UNDOF personnel was the paramount consideration throughout the operation. FRC ensured that a clear focus remained on the operational situation, taking into consider- ation the threat and security implications for this operation. The FRC established a three- phase operation. The first phase involved the establishment of the security cordon. This was supported by a Mech Coy security component and medi- cal presence from the FRC. The ESSC team executed the second phase, with EOD on a notice to move status in Camp Faouar. The ESSC team, when conduct- ing the search were required to employ area search and build- ing search techniques. The ESSC team has at its disposal, a wide array of tools and equipment. Personnel and search equipment are transported in a MAN HX-60 armoured search truck, offering protection to the searchers within. The search operation of UNP 32 employed both manual (Vallon VMR3, Allen Hook & Line Set) and mechanical means (DOK-ING). The DOK-ING MV4 is a tracked, remote controlled mine flail. It is designed to clear all types of anti-personnel mines and can withstand anti-tank blasts. The search was carried out over a two-day period, wherein the entirety of UNP 32 was searched. When the post was successfully cleared, the third phase involved the handing over to the Nepalese Mecha- nised Company (NMC) for reoccupation. 58 Inf Gp were essential in enhancing UNDOFs footprint in the AO by conducting this deliberate search operation. NMC personnel now permanently man UNP 32. The ESSC team can expect to be tasked on a number of operations during this rotation, including the search and clearance of additional UNPs and OP locations. These operations will also support the reestablishment of the infrastructural and communications network in UNDOF. Capt Aoife Shanley The DOK-ING MV4 mine flail

• Cover