Radio traffic across the Battle Group Warhorse net lit up when enemy armoured vehicles were seen advancing toward 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles.
Officer Commanding A Squadron, Major Katherine Clarkson quickly understood the threat and radioed though a situation report.
“Niner, this is one-niner … my assessment is we have triggered the most dangerous course of action. Over,” Major Clarkson said.
“Noting our successes in clearing to the 68 northing I request this call-sign proceed and conduct an assault by fire to prevent being interdicted from an enemy break-out to the south. Over …”
This simulated enemy engagement had been months in the planning and was the first time A Squadron in its entirety had conducted a live-fire manoeuvre exercise with its Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles.
“I’m so proud of everyone … the effects on target were smooth and lethal,” Major Clarkson said after completing the activity.
“We’ve put a new capability through static and troop-level live-fire activities in previous iterations, but to have the whole squadron roll out and conduct safe gunnery – it’s a fantastic milestone.”
Driver, Trooper Wade Musicka said the vehicles had been pushed more than ever and he was lucky to crew Boxer, after having completed initial entry training at the School of Armour.
“The platform can fire out to 3.5 kilometres and has a target acquisition capability that can identify unmanned aerial systems,” Trooper Musicka said.
“The lethality of the vehicle, combined with the ease in which it can traverse difficult terrain allows the crew to feel safe and comfortable so we can get on with the job,” he said.
“The squadron loves them and the platform’s only going to get better with each new development.”
