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Powerful Demonstration Of Military Equipment
Salisbury Plain, UK (SPX) Sep 23, 2008 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles scanned the horizon for enemy action. Jackal vehicles with their awesome firepower raced ahead using the latest surveillance and targeting systems. Infantry stood ready to strike with deadly sniper rifles, mortars and grenade machine guns - this wasn't a major operation in Afghanistan but the UK's largest demonstration of military equipment purchased urgently for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hundreds of pieces of equipment and over 500 people gathered on Salisbury Plain for a powerful demonstration of the advanced technology and cutting-edge equipment that is supporting our troops on operations. From the heavily armoured Mastiff patrol vehicle - a hero of recent operations in Afghanistan, to sophisticated thermal imaging sights and the latest state-of-the-art cameras and remote weapons systems - all were on site and demonstrating their effect to those present. Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support said: "The Urgent Operational Requirements (UOR) process is an undisputed success - over GBP3Bn of extra money has been spent on new equipment for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan - from new armoured vehicles like Mastiff and Ridgback to remote weapon systems which are protecting the soldiers in their bases. "Working with our partners in industry, we have responded quickly to the evolving and often unpredictable threats our soldiers face on operations. We have listened to the feedback from the ground and procured state-of-the-art kit to meet the urgent needs of our troops. The large display of equipment here is testament to the effectiveness of that UOR process." All the equipment demonstrated has been recently procured or upgraded through the urgent operational requirement process, with funds coming directly from the Treasury and separate to the defence budget. Major General Bill Moore CBE, Director General Logistic Support and Equipment, Land Forces said: "The Army is well equipped on operations. The equipment fielded in both Afghanistan and Iraq, when coupled with offensive tactics, techniques and procedures enables our soldiers to seize the initiative and conduct successful operations against the insurgents. It is also saving lives." Community Email This Article Comment On This Article Share This Article With Planet Earth
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Gates says Europe gone too far in de-militarising Woodstock, England (AFP) Sept 19, 2008 US Defence Secretary Robert Gates warned Europe Friday that it had gone too far in de-militarising and should rebuild its defences at a time of uncertainty over Russia's intentions. |
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