An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 15 use of the Scorpion armoured recce squadrons, what they are doing here will ensure greater interoperability between corps in a way never seen before. One of the many steps involved is the standardisation of hand-signals; a simple but crucial step that demonstrates the level of detail being addressed. Signals currently vary from corps to corps and brigade to brigade, so the staff are using this as a starting point to prepare the DF for exercises and overseas missions that will call for an all-arms approach. Expect to see a cor- responding training circular and instruction applicable to all armour to be issued this year. Another challenge they are looking at is posed by CBRN, often seen as a standalone disci- pline and not as a role of recce. However, operating in a contaminated environment is an inte- gral part of the cavalry recce role. There is no doubt that it is a testing situation to work in; dress-cat 4R (the full multi- layered suit, respirator and helmet) in an armoured vehicle with all hatches closed can quickly degrade the crew. To counter this threat and to improve the overall capabilities of their essential crews, the Cav School has been looking at introducing a night-time CBRN cross- country driving assessment for drivers. To get an idea of the difficulty posed by operational night driving, take a look at the pictures reproduced here showing the view through the driver's night-sight, their only window on the world when driving with the hatches down. Factor in also that working in a CBRN environment the driver's view will be further hampered by a respira- tor. In addition, the restricted breathing through a respirator and the bulkiness of cat 4 clothing in the confines of the driver's station can present real difficul- ties when trying to navigate around forest tracks and country lanes. Taking all this into account, the CBRN cross-country night-driving course can be seen as the pinnacle of achievement for any Mowag driver. In addition to the issues addressed in this article, the Cav School will also be making some changes to the live-fire procedure. These amendments will place further demands on all personnel involved; driver, gunner and commander. These changes will be featured in a future issue of the magazine. With some of the biggest changes in a generation taking place, the Cavalry Corps are redefining their role in the DF and taking the lead in integrating their skills with other corps. Watch this space!

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