Britain prepares 30,000 troops to answer US call for coalition force

The Times ^ | November 21, 2002 | Michael Evans

[MadIvan]

THE three Armed Forces can officially start gearing up for war after the United States formally asked for a British contribution to a “coalition of the willing” to fight Iraq.

Detailed plans have been drawn up but ministers have yet to decide which to select. The options range from a limited contribution involving special forces and other specialist capabilities such as Tomahawk cruise missile-armed submarines and RAF air-to-air refuelling tankers, to a full-scale land force.

The Government is expected to go for a substantial ground force of up to 15,000 troops, as well as a carrier battle group, a Royal Marine commando, deployed on HMS Ocean, the helicopter carrier, and RAF Tornado GR4 bombers. While numbers have not been fixed, the total package could amount to between 20,000 and 30,000 personnel.

Intensive training is already going on in Germany, where the main elements of the proposed ground force are based. The units are all from 7th Armoured Brigade, known as the Desert Rats, and 4th Armoured Brigade, part of 1st (UK) Armoured Division.

The brigades are equipped with Challenger 2 tanks, AS90 self-propelled guns, multiple-launch rocket systems and Warrior armoured fighting vehicles. The ground force envisaged is described as an “enhanced armoured brigade” — one full brigade, the 7th, reinforced with elements from another, the 4th.

Regiments now preparing for war include the 1st Battalion The Black Watch, The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, 1st Battalion Irish Guards, 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, 26 Regiment Royal Artillery and 12 Regiment Royal Artillery.

Elements of 5 Regiment Royal Artillery and 32 Regiment Royal Artillery are also engaged in warfighting training in Germany, and a substantial number of signals, logistics and transport units have also been earmarked for Iraq.

Geoff Hoon, the Defence Secretary, had promised a significant contribution when he went to see Donald Rumsfeld, his American counterpart, in Washington about a month ago.

Now, for the first time, the Treasury will have to approve spending on spares, new equipment, and “desertising” Challenger 2 tanks, whose engines need to be protected from the sand in Iraq. The Royal Navy’s “R2” (high-readiness) aircraft carrier, HMS Ark Royal, is currently in Portsmouth undergoing maintenance after her involvement in the recent Nato exercise in the Mediterranean.

An Ark Royal battle group, with three or four warship escorts and one or two nuclear-powered submarines, armed with Tomahawks, is likely to be included in Britain’s offer. HMS Ocean is also in maintenance but will be ready for operations early in the New Year.

Under current plans, not yet approved by ministers, about 10,000 reservists may have to be mobilised. The mobilisation order which will have to be announced in Parliament, will be the clearest signal that Britain is preparing for war.

[MadIvan]

With you at the first, with you to the last.

Regards, Ivan

[MadIvan]

Bump!

[Pamlico]

Many thanks for joining hands in this critical battle against terror. Your help is greatly appreciated.

[Sparta]

From all of us across the pond to our British cousins, thank you for standing with us unconditionally and to the end.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!
GOD BLESS BRITANNIA!!!!
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!!!!

LONG LIVE THE ANGLO-AMERICAN ALLIANCE!!!!!!

[Schmedlap]

I've trained with militaries from about 10 or 15 countries. Of those, the British and Canadians are the only ones whom I have any respect for - the British more so than the Canadians.

[Darlin']

Thank you for posting that statement by Prime Minister Blair. When he delivered that speech, I was so touched by the gravity of his concern and with his unhesitant support that it brought tears to my eyes. I was just about to post an excerpt that included it. :)

[Bahbah]

The spirit of Churchill is afoot in the land. Thanks from a grateful ally.

[Right_in_Virginia]

"Many thanks for joining hands in this critical battle against terror. Your help is greatly appreciated."

AMEN!

[TopQuark]

Well said, Spara; worth repeating:

From all of us across the pond to our British cousins, thank you for standing with us unconditionally and to the end. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!! GOD BLESS BRITANNIA!!!! GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!!!! LONG LIVE THE ANGLO-AMERICAN ALLIANCE!!!!!!

[TopQuark]

THE three Armed Forces Which three, Ivan?

[Mr. Silverback]

With you at the first, with you to the last.

And boy, do we appreciate it!

[Mr. Silverback]

Wasn't aware you folks had Tomahawks on your subs. The RN was scary enough before you got those!

[Mr. Silverback]

i'll throw in an Amen to that.

[VOA]

The Iraqi soldiers need to check out the current state of Argentines who are vets
of The Falklands War...
many homeless, on the street, and blamed for all the country's problems.

Here's hoping the Iraqi military will take a hint and just give Saddam his golden parachute
(into Libya?) and just roll out the carpet for the UK, USA and any brave souls who
are along for the ride.

[wingnuts'nbolts]

Not exactly with us at the first, but definately there. Nevertheless, Tony is a standup guy who sees the writing on the wall.