An Cosantóir May 2018 www.dfmagazine.ie
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By CAPt. AISLInn KELLEhER
PhotoS By CPL nEvILLE CoughLAn & CAPt. AISLInn KELLEhER
T
he LtAv (Light tactical Armoured vehicle) oDC (operator Driver Course)
is primarily undertaken by personnel due to travel overseas. the LtAv is
utilized in unIFIL as part of the QRt (Quick Reaction team). Smaller than the
MoWAg, it is easier to navigate around the narrow roads in the Ao, and has been
used to good effect. the LtAv provides a Mechanised Company increased flexibil-
ity in terms of protection, mobility and CSS. the LtAv can be utilized by a CS & CQ,
and also as part of Company Recce Element within a Mech Coy. the LtAv is avail-
able for use by external units for exercises, MRE's and shoots from B Coy 6 Inf Bn.
The different variants of LTAV employed in the Defence Forces include Infantry,
Cavalry, Artillery and CIS. Each is fitted with a different turret system, however the
ODC course is applicable to all. 6 Inf Bn is the designated LTAV School of Excellence
in the Defence Forces. From here, we qualify personnel across the Defence Forces
on the LTAV RG32M Inf Variant. Other LTAV courses ran annually in LTAV School
include Gunnery Dismount Courses (GDC), Fitter Admin Course, and LTAV
Instructor course.
The 26th LTAV Operator Driver Course (ODC) commenced on 5th March 2018 in 6
Inf Bn, Custume Bks Athlone. This was the largest ODC since the introduction of the
LTAV in 2010, with 18 students drawn from 1 Bde, 2 Bde and DFTC. This course has
proven extremely popular by personnel across the 2 Brigades, and this is reflected in
the large number of students constantly applying for the course, ran twice annually
by 6 Inf Bn LTAV staff. This four week course consists of classroom based lectures,
practical lessons, driving instruction, vehicle maintenance and gunnery.
