The task of soldiers from logistics subunits throughout the year is to ensure the functioning of all types of the Brigade’s military activities. The same applies during tactical operations conducted by mechanized and armored subunits. The variety of needs generated during these operations makes it necessary to provide subunits with comprehensive support, including logistical support. In view of the above, efficient and continuous logistical support for fighting subunits is one of the decisive conditions for the successful conduct of combat operations. It is impossible to meet these challenges without constant improvement, exercises and training.
On Tuesday, February 2, during field training conducted by the logistics battalion of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade, particular attention was focused on the operations of the damaged-equipment collection point, as well as securing the area where it operated by the maintenance company. For this subunit, this is its primary task.
“First, soldiers from the maintenance and evacuation team must covertly approach the damaged equipment or vehicle. They then assess and verify its technical condition. Once it is established that the vehicle is unable to leave the battlefield independently, they evacuate it using their own equipment, in this case a Bergepanzer 2 armored recovery vehicle. The damaged vehicle is evacuated to the damaged-equipment collection point for further repairs and, consequently, restoration of its operational capability,” explains Maj. Maciej Łuczak of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade.
During combat, military equipment may be destroyed or damaged, which is why it must be sorted and evacuated. Timely evacuation of damaged weapons and military equipment from the battlefield helps rapidly restore its technical serviceability and return it quickly to its parent subunits.
“To operate efficiently and effectively while using the capabilities of the FAUN L900 D567 truck, one must have the necessary experience. It is heavy equipment to work with, requiring concentration and focus from its operators. In addition, we work here as a team, cooperating and helping one another. Cooperation between the team commander and the winch operator is essential so that the vehicle being pulled enters the ramps correctly,” reported Senior Corporal Rafał Knop of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade.
Several scenarios were implemented during the training, requiring comprehensive skills from the soldiers and a higher level of decision-making effectiveness from the command staff, often under time pressure. The skills and experience of the crews of Bergepanzer armored recovery vehicles and heavy trucks adapted for transporting tanks and FAUN L900 D567 equipment proved extremely important.
“Repairs of military equipment under stationary conditions, in a maintenance hall, cannot in any way be compared with evacuating and repairing equipment on the battlefield. The battlefield—the training ground—verifies our skills, because this is where factors beyond our control, such as enemy action or changing weather conditions, affect the tasks we perform,” explains Maj. M. Łuczak.