An Cosantóir

www.military CAVALRY SCOUT TACTICAL COURSE www.military An Cosantóir March / April 2025 www.military.ie/magazine O n the 11th FEB 2025 students from all Cavalry Squadrons met in the Cavalry School Auditorium to commence their journey on the 4th Cavalry Scout Tactical Course. The Cavalry Scout Course was introduced in early 2022 to replace the Cavalry Reconnaissance Course. This change marked the need to keep pace with developing military technology in warfare. The 'human-in-the-loop' (Scout) employs modern technology coupled with a high level of soldier skills, to provide close to real time information in collaboration with other arms to contribute to real time Information Fusion, thus contributing to the Commanders Decision Making Process. Prior to commencing the Scout Tactical Course, as a prerequisite, students must first pass the Scout Sensor, Scout Communication and Scout Navigation Modules of the Scout Course. The aim of the tactical course is develop basic soldier skills and provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a Cavalry Scout. It focuses on attaining high standards of weapons handling, the ability to react to contact and dismounted patrolling Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs). The Cavalry Scout Tactical Course is conducted over an intensive four week period in Cavalry School. During week one, students received training on vehicle dismount drills, classroom lessons, the principles of medium reconnaissance, care under fire drills (CUF), and river crossing techniques with the main focus on dismounted patrolling TTPs. Students deployed to the Glen of Imaal in order to hone these skills and ensure standardisation of TTPs. Students spent two nights on the ground during the first week to revise Patrol Harbour and night operations. By night, students were trained in conducting ambushes, close reconnaissance and other aspects of night operations. By the close of week one, students realised one key take away; in areas where friendly forces armour assets are denied, dismounted Scouts must learn to thrive. During week two students were introduced to Observation Post construction, survivability and extraction. Owing to the modern technologies introduced during the sensor block, namely the multi-sensor binocular FLIR RECON B2-FO and SAAB BARACUDA net camouflage, an emphasis was placed on safe standoff. Students were taught Artillery Call for Fire procedures thanks to the Artillery School staff and the use of their simulator. Students deployed on exercise ARTICLE BY CAPT PAUL SHEEHAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CAPT PAUL SHEEHAN The use of drones are becoming increasingly effective for reconnaissance

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