ExTeal Ready: A Test of Capability and Adaptability

by Lt J Brakes RM, Lt L Ashman RM and Lt A Haywood RM, A Coy Tp OCs

Ex Teal Ready brought together A Coy and elements of C Coy, in a challenging peer-on-peer training environment designed to push tactical, technical and physical boundaries. With C Coy acting as the Opposing Force (OPFOR), the exercise not only evaluated A Coy’s offensive capabilities but also provided C Coy an invaluable opportunity to refine its newly implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The two-week exercise was structured into distinct phases. A mobilisation and staging phase, insertion and shaping, decisive and finally the sustain phase. During the shaping through to decisive phases C Coy was assigned to defend three critical objectives against A Coy’s reconnaissance and deliberate actions. The defensive role required C Coy to split into multiple teams and utilise advanced tactics and equipment, including drones and thermal imaging, to secure Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2AD) assets. This integration of newly issued high-tech surveillance gave C Coy a decisive edge in early threat detection, rapid response and strategic manoeuvring.

A Coy began their deployment with preparatory recall drills at Norton Manor Camp before staging at RAF Brize Norton. Orders were issued, kit and vehicles loaded onto a mock A400, reinforcing the process should the need arise for future real-world operations. Upon insertion into Kielder Forest, the Company conducted a long-range insertion over two nights through demanding terrain, navigating independently in small teams to reduce their signature and risk of detection from overhead drones. Once in place, they established Lay-Up Points (LUPs), camouflaged with anti-thermal netting and local foliage to avoid detection. Once established each Troop commenced surveillance and reconnaissance (S&R) on their first objective.