Iraqi Army 2nd Division receives ILAVs
By Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq, Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base
Dec 17, 2007 - 2:25:29 PM
Blackanthem Military News
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| An Iraqi Army sergeant with the Iraqi Army's 2nd Division closes a door on an Iraqi Light Armored Vehicle during a walk around of the vehicle here Dec. 17. The 2nd Division received 33 of the vehicles, which are designed to enhance survivability during ambush and roadside bomb attacks. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Christopher Frost) |
TAJI, Iraq - The Iraqi Army 2nd Division was issued 33 Iraqi Light Armored Vehicles here Dec. 17.
The vehicle, also known as a Badger, is a V-hulled, mine protected vehicle similar to the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in use by the United States.
The Badger will increase the unit's capability, said Iraqi Army 2nd Lt. Montaser of the Iraqi Army's 2nd Division. "It's going to support our soldiers, and make them safe," he added.
This is the second to last mass issue of Badgers, with 40 more being prepared for another Iraqi Army division.
"They're really looking forward to them," said Maj. Clint Morris of the Coalition Military Assistance Training Team, about the 2nd Division's issue of the vehicles. "They're in some heated operations right now, and they really want them."
Despite nearly 300 of the Iraqi Badgers on the road, the vehicle maintains a similar safety and survivability reputation with the American MRAP.
"I'm sure my soldiers will be 100 percent safe," said Montaser.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:
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| An Iraqi Army sergeant with the Iraqi Army's 2nd Division closes the hood of an Iraqi Light Armored Vehicle during a walk around of the vehicle here Dec. 17. The 2nd Division received 33 of the vehicles and is planning on receiving more in an engineer route clearance mission configuration. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Christopher Frost) |
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| Iraqi Light Armored Vehicles wait to be issued to an Iraqi Army unit in Taji, Iraq. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Christie Putz) |
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