Image: The mission was a rare but vital experience for the Reservists (Image: Chris Fletcher)

By Smartencyclopedia with Agencies

For the first time, two British port and maritime regiments set up a landing beach in Albania, marking a significant milestone in military logistics.

ALBANIA – Army Reservists from Plymouth and the wider south-west of England have returned from a challenging mission in southern Albania, where they participated in a rare and complex maritime logistics training exercise. Named Exercise Austere Wolf, the mission was part of a larger series of military operations, Operation Chelonia, aimed at enhancing NATO’s readiness in the western Balkans.

The exercise saw the deployment of a complete Theatre Enablement Group (TEG) from the 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade, tasked with establishing a beachhead for essential military logistics. This TEG serves as the core logistical framework, providing the support needed for frontline operations, including equipment repair, medical facilities, field catering, and even specialized units for laundry and shower facilities.

Unlike typical port operations, the TEG was delivered into a remote, undeveloped area, necessitating the use of the Mexeflote – an innovative, modular floating platform that transfers heavy military equipment from ship to shore. “The Mexeflote is central to our mission here, enabling us to simulate a real-world scenario where access to a formal port is unavailable,” explained Major Mark Player, Deputy Chief of Staff of the 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade. “This exercise tests our troops in an austere setting, providing invaluable training for real deployment scenarios.”

The troops operated out of the 13,500-tonne Ro-Ro vessel Hartland Point, which transported 26,000 linear meters of military hardware to Albania. “This represents a 2.6 km convoy if stretched out in a line – a significant operation by any measure,” Major Player added. “This exercise offers our soldiers bragging rights; these are global soldiers who have supported missions in Australia, Africa, Singapore, and the USA.”

Among the Plymouth reservists was Officer Cadet Hal Gamble, a 27-year-old photographer who documented the beach landing. Bringing skills from his civilian career in photography, Gamble highlighted the unique opportunities offered by the Army Reserves: “Being a reservist allows you to experience the best of both worlds. You’re gaining invaluable skills and qualifications – and you’re paid to learn them.” Gamble, who will soon undertake officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, expressed excitement for what the future holds.

A Global Reach

For the British Army’s 165 Port & Maritime Regiment, the success of Exercise Austere Wolf reinforces their reputation as a versatile force. “These soldiers deploy across the world and deliver critical support for UK Defense,” Major Player said.

With the operation’s success, Plymouth’s reservists have not only gained invaluable training but also achieved an impressive milestone for UK Defence operations, enhancing readiness for missions across diverse global landscapes.