Afghanistan Army Launches Largest Air Assault Operation
The Afghanistan Army has performed the largest air assault operation, Operation Omid Shash, in Afghanistan's Central Helmand Province, to disrupt insurgent activity in the district of Nahr-e Saraj. The air assault operation was carried out using ten helicopters, including Merlins, Chino
The Afghanistan Army has performed the largest air assault operation, Operation Omid Shash, in Afghanistan’s Central Helmand Province, to disrupt insurgent activity in the district of Nahr-e Saraj.
The air assault operation was carried out using ten helicopters, including Merlins, Chinooks, Sea Stallions and an Apache attack helicopter.
The Afghan National Army commanded and controlled 1,000 ground troops and coordinated reconnaissance assets, artillery, counter-IED teams, fighter aircraft and helicopters.
The operation was supported by the 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment and the 1st Battalion Irish Guards, who are responsible for partnering and mentoring the Afghans.
The 1st Battalion Irish Guards Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Chris Ghika said the operation was intended to gain deep understanding of the area, and to develop specialist capabilities in countering the IED threat.