The activity included 44 service members from the Manaus and Belém Security and Defense Groups.
Air Force Agency – COMPREP, by Lieutenant Bontempo
With the goal of preparing Air Force Infantry Troops for possible deployments in United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Missions, the Arcanjo Technical Exercise, which began in May, came to an end on June 29. The instruction was conducted through the Infantry Troop Preparation Internship for Peacekeeping Missions (EPTIMP) in Manaus (AM).
The exercise enabled the training of Techniques, Tactics and Procedures (TTP) used by the Air Force Infantry Troop, such as: Pre-Hospital Care (APH); Tactical; Static Security Post; Road Blocking and Control Post; Motorized Escort; Approach and Personal and Vehicle Search; Ostensive Policing; Disturbance Control Operations and Self-Defense.
According to the Head of the Ground Operations Preparedness Sub-Command of the Preparedness Command (SPOT/COMPREP), Infantry Brigadier General Alexandre Okada, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB, per its Portuguese acronym) seeks to maintain the preparation and training of troops to fulfill this type of mission. “Brazil has a tradition and experience in participating in peacekeeping missions around the world and the national defense strategy makes clear the responsibilities of the Armed Forces in maintaining this operational capacity. EXTEC Arcanjo concludes the development and improvement of the protection of deployed air assets and the defense of units in peacekeeping missions, consolidating the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of participating service members,” said the general.
During the exercise, the Air Force Infantry Troops in preparation also participated in training with C-105 Amazonas aircraft from the First Squadron of the Ninth Aviation Group (1º/9ºGAV) – Arara Squadron; and H-60 Black Hawk aircraft from the Seventh Squadron of the Eighth Aviation Group (7º/8º GAV) – Harpy Squadron. During the exercise, service members were trained in boarding, disembarking, and aircraft protection techniques; they acquired knowledge about the UN Military Air Unit Manual and the main threats faced by aircraft deployed in hostile territories; and they contributed to the improvement of techniques, tactics, and procedures used to neutralize possible threats.
The Final Practical Exercise placed the military personnel in a scenario within the context of a Peace Mission, requiring them to use the knowledge acquired to solve the simulated problems. At the time, Troop Fraction Commanders were responsible for planning the security of the Temporary Support Base, conducting foot patrols, searching for explosive devices, escorting personnel and supplies, and supporting humanitarian assistance for women and children – all actions aimed at maintaining a safe and stable environment, as well as protecting civilians in the fictitious location.
EXTEC Arcanjo was composed of 44 service members from the Manaus and Belém Security and Defense Groups (GSD, per its Portuguese acronym), and was intended to maintain the readiness of an Infantry Platoon related to the composition of a Joint Brazilian Battalion for the Protection of Air Assets offered for a peacekeeping mission.
Photos: SPOT / COMPREP