The Force Protection Rapid Reaction Force: A Key Pillar in Fulfilling NATO’s Mission in Iraq
This Spanish unit maintains a reaction core that guarantees an adequate response to any situation or threat at the UNION III base.
The Force Protection Unit deployed in Operation Support to Iraq XXIII ensures, on a daily basis, an appropriate and effective response to any risk or threat within a dynamic and volatile operational environment. In this context, the escort missions conducted by Spanish service members to safeguard the movement of international advisers assigned to the NATO Mission in Iraq (NMI) are of particular relevance.
The Force Protection Unit consists of an organic platoon reinforced by a medical team and an interpreter, commanded by a sergeant. To carry out its tasks, the unit has four vehicles equipped with all the necessary communications and tactical equipment as well as weapons and materiel to support operations outside the base or carrying out escort missions.
To this end, the platoon navigator has the routes of all ongoing movements loaded on his devices. In addition, the head of the Force Protection Unit is in constant contact with the stabilization cell, which consists of an ambulance, a doctor and a nurse, in case immediate medical assistance is required.
Sergeant Aldo Arias Marcos, one of the heads of the Force Protection Unit, states "We remain on standby to assist in resolving any incident that may occur, both inside and outside the base, ranging from medical evacuations to the corresponding ROLE facility, to cleaning and reconnaissance of the interior of the base in case of potential threats. We are proud to collaborate with the NATO Mission in Iraq by providing this capability."
This escort service is maintained on a 24-hour basis, during which the Force Protection Unit may be activated with a reaction time of 15 minutes. During this duty period, the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) conducts Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) training. In addition, joint training is carried out with K9 teams specialized in the detection of explosives or personnel, which may be attached to the platoon as required.
Finally, theoretical training is also provided on weaponry, means of communication, and technical tactics and procedures to maintain their level of instruction and the operational readiness of the equipment, with the ultimate aim of increasing effectiveness.
Spanish participation in Iraq
Spain participates in two international missions in Iraq: the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) and Operation Inherent Resolve, led by the Global Coalition against Daesh. Spain maintains a Special Operations Task Group (SOTG XXIII) in the latter.
The NMI aims to strengthen the capabilities of the Iraqi security forces and military education institutions by providing training and advice to Iraqi defence and security officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and Iraqi military schools and institutions. The NMI integrates both civilian and military personnel with the aim of increasing the effectiveness of NATO's efforts and maximising cooperation with other entities on the ground. Spain currently contributes the largest contingent of personnel to the NMI.
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