By LSCISSM Rachel Irving
RAN personnel will be helping Iraq to re-build five NASUR patrol boats.
The RAN will help bring a “degree of security” to the Iraqi maritime region with the deployment of teams to the coastal port of Umm Qasr.
The Navy will train the newly established Iraqi Coastal Defence Force using patrol and small boat specialists.
LCDR Tony Powell, who worked with the development of the RAN’s new Armidale class Patrol Boats, and POSN Scott Ratcliffe (HMAS Cairns) are expected to deploy to Iraq within the next few weeks and will be followed by commissioning and training teams.
The commissioning team of LEUT Scott Rivett (HMAS Townsville), CPOMT George Massouas (FIMA CAIRNS) and LSBM Shane McGrath (MWVSTG) are finalising their force preparation and will coordinate the introduction into service of five Iraqi patrol boats, NASUR 1 to 5.
The team will deploy over the coming months to Umm Qasr which will become the new Iraqi training base. LCDR Powell said it was a fantastic opportunity for Australia to assist in the rebuilding of Iraq.
“By transferring some of the RAN’s extensive knowledge of patrol boat operations, of operations in The Gulf and of our experiences in assisting our neighbouring South Pacific Island patrol forces, our small contribution can help bring a degree of security to this region,” he said.
“In the longer term, our efforts in developing an effective Iraqi Coastal Defence Force will allow the coalition to reduce their naval commitments in The Gulf.