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EUTM-SOMALIA – Live fire Exercise for the 1st Company of the "Flame" Battalion

29.08.2017

The completion of a live firing exercise at the General Dhagabadan Training Center (GDTC) in Mogadishu, the first such exercise during the European Union Training Mission Somalia (EUTM-S) 5th Mandate, concluded the mentoring phase conducted by AMISOM (African Mission in Somalia) troops in the training of the 1st Company of the Flame Battalion of the Somali National Army (SNA).

The activities took place under the supervision of EUTM-S instructors in collaboration with AMISOM soldiers who delivered theory and practical preparation during the period 22-26 August and, in the second phase, live firing from 27-29 August utilsing the AK-47 weapon system of the SNA.

The soldiers, who were participating in their first experience of live firing on the range, showed high levels of dedication and commitment and as well as mastery of weapon handling.

The EUTM-S has been operating in Mogadishu since 2014 and, in accordance with the tasks received within the 5th Mandate, began training company-level units. A preliminary condition for this phase is to prepare the junior commanders and the future trainer of the Somali armed forces. The courses are planned and conducted by the EUTM-S Training Team personnel. Additionally, through its own Advisory Team, the Mission supports and provides advice to the Somali State Staff and the Ministry of Somali Defense.

To date, some 5,000 soldiers have been trained, contributing significantly to the development of Security Sector Reform in Somalia.

Mogadishu, August 29, 2017