Operational medals following NATO deployment

Around 150 soldiers from the battalion’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Group deployed to Poland as part of Operation Cabrit, the UK’s contribution to NATO’s mission in eastern Europe. The troops were part of a US-led multinational battlegroup that also included Croatian, Romanian and Polish soldiers, based at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area in north-east Poland.

During the deployment, the soldiers undertook a demanding programme of training. This began with basic field training before progressing to urban warfare exercises designed to test their ability to operate effectively in built-up areas. The final stage saw soldiers take part in a large-scale live-fire exercise alongside the US-led battlegroup.

The Anti-Tank Platoon strengthened its skills on the Javelin anti-tank guided missile system and the NLAW (Next generation Light Anti-tank Weapon), both used to destroy armoured vehicles at short to medium range. Meanwhile, the Patrols Platoon completed demanding field exercises and a Sniper Operator’s Course. Soldiers also worked alongside NATO aircraft supporting the Baltic Air Policing mission.

One of the deployment’s most challenging phases saw the battlegroup conduct a major road move from Poland through Lithuania and Latvia into Estonia. This culminated in Exercise Winter Camp, where troops demonstrated their ability to operate and fight in extreme winter conditions.

Joined by their families and fellow members of the Regiment, those on parade reflected on a demanding and rewarding deployment. Throughout, they worked closely with NATO allies from across Europe and North America.