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Instead of Creating a huge Wall of Text i decided to change the format a little bit so people can read what they prefer. I noticed not many speak of this and is less talked about so i decided to post this here.
@Abingdonboy @Levina @ranjeet @nair @Icarus @Oscar
Sources
http://usiofindia.org/Article/?ano=609 &pubno=550 &pub=Journal
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Khukri
http://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/history/sas-history-2000s.php
@Abingdonboy @Levina @ranjeet @nair @Icarus @Oscar
Deployment of the RUF
The military organisation of the RUF consisted of six brigades under a Defence HQ. Each brigade had four battalions and a "strike" battalion. The cadre consisted of battle hardened and motivated veterans. Each battalion had approximately 960 men and women, divided into four companies of 240 persons each. Each company had four platoons of 60 divided into four squads of 12 to 15 persons. They were equipped with AK-47, RPG-7s, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Surface to Air Missiles (SAMs). The 1st Brigade of the RUF, with its HQ in Pendembu, was deployed in own AOR as under :-
(a) 1st Battalion - Mobai
(b) 2nd Battalion - Kuiva
(c) 3rd Battalion - Neama
(d) 4th Battalion - Koindu
(e) Strike Battalion - Segbwema
United Nations Assistance Mission in Sierra Leone
The military organisation of the RUF consisted of six brigades under a Defence HQ. Each brigade had four battalions and a "strike" battalion. The cadre consisted of battle hardened and motivated veterans. Each battalion had approximately 960 men and women, divided into four companies of 240 persons each. Each company had four platoons of 60 divided into four squads of 12 to 15 persons. They were equipped with AK-47, RPG-7s, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Surface to Air Missiles (SAMs). The 1st Brigade of the RUF, with its HQ in Pendembu, was deployed in own AOR as under :-
(a) 1st Battalion - Mobai
(b) 2nd Battalion - Kuiva
(c) 3rd Battalion - Neama
(d) 4th Battalion - Koindu
(e) Strike Battalion - Segbwema
United Nations Assistance Mission in Sierra Leone
- Ground units and Airborne units
- 223 troops of 5/8th Gorkha Rifles besieged at Kailahun
- Approximately six companies of riflemen of the 5/8th Gorkha Rifles at Daru, elements of 14th Mechanised Infantry Battalion
- One Quick Reaction Company of Mechanised Infantry and Paracommandos
- 18th Grenadiers
- QRC of Mechanised Infantry
- One Company of engineers
- 2 Para (SF)
- Several Mortars and one Light Field Gun
- Aircraft
- 3 Mil Mi-35s
- 8 Mil Mi-8s
- 2 HAL Chetaks
- 2 Chinooks
- 1 C-130 Hercules
- Reserves
- 2 Companies of the Ghana Army
- Two Companies of the Nigerian Army
Mobilisation
The build up at Daru and Kenewa was conducted from 13 to 15 July 2000. 3 x MI-26s, 7 x MI-8s, 2 x Chinook helicopters and 1 x RAF C-130 aircraft were pressed into service for the task. Daru being cut off from the rest of government controlled areas, had to be built up by helicopters. By the last light of D minus one (14 July 2000) the build up of forces was completed.
Preparations at Kailahun
The entire operation depended on the successful breakout of Kailahun companies and extrication of MILOBs. The Kailahun company commanders were given a broad outline of the plan and the force commander and commanding officer (CO) also spoke to them regularly on satellite phone (satphone). As most of the troops were to be helilanded and close support was dependent on attack helicopters, the weather conditions for flying were of paramount importance. The two companies were deployed 500 metres from Kailahun on dominating ground . Two helipads within the defended area, were secured by occupying perimeter defence and deploying protective elements.
Air Extrication
On 15 July 2000, the helipad was secured and entire area sanitised by 0600h. Despite bad weather, two RAF Chinook helicopters landed exactly as per plan at 0620h and extricated 44 personnel including 11 MILOBs and war like stores. Enroute the same helicopters had dropped Company 2 PARA(SF), two kilometres South of Kailahun. The RUF had approximately 300 to 400 of its cadre in Kailahun. Due to the arrival of Chinook helicopters the RUF were activated but were effectively engaged by own fire. As per plan the Chinooks were to be followed by three MI-8 escorted by attack helicopters (AH) of Indian Aviation Unit to extricate more stores, however, these helicopters could not take off due to bad weather.
Breakout
Prior to move, a fire assault was delivered for 10 minutes employing fire power of rocket launchers, armoured personnel carries, automatic grenade launchers, 51 mm mortars and medium machine guns. As per the plan Mechanised Company-1 of 5/8 GR (Mech 1 Company) was tasked to capture Town Square in Kailahun and Motorised Rifle Company-1 of 5/8 GR (Mot 1 Company) to capture RUF checkpost astride road Kailahun - Daru. The advance was led by the Ghatak (Commando) Platoon supported by three armoured reconnaisance vehicles (BRDMs). The advance drew fire from QG area and RUF checkpost. QG area was neutralised by Ghatak with support of BRDMs. Thereafter on contacting the town square, a fire base was established by Mech 1 Company and Mot 1 Company assaulted the check post with the Town Square as their forming up place (FUP). The advance of Mot 1 Company towards the barrier came under heavy fire from the RUF but the fierce assault closed in and soon secured the check post. Immediately, the B vehicle column moved out and link up was established with Company 2 Para by Mot 1 Company at the barrier. The fire base at Town Square in Kailahun continued to be in position till all elements had crossed and then disengaged by fire and move. The column quickly advanced towards Giehun with Company 2 Para and BRDMs covering the tail. At around 0930h the attack helicopters arrived and thereafter it was easy to break contact from the RUF who by now had reorganised and were continuously sniping at the rearguard. Around 1030h the road column arrived at Geihun to link up with the INDBATT-2 Company which had been helilanded earlier. The Force Commander landed at Geihun to meet the troops and ordered the helilift of 60 troops to Daru.
Move to Pendembu
After reorganising, the column moved on and encountered two major road blocks in the form of 8 feet wide and 4 feet deep ditches dug on the road covered by small arms and rocket launcher fire. Continuous sniping by rebels and slushy conditions on the road impeded progress. The area was physically secured and bridging stores carried by the column and those dropped by an MI-8 helicopter facilitated speedy bridging. The column met the linkup force under the CO 5/8 GR Battalion Group about 5 kilometres from Pendembu at 1700h, D Day. Thereafter the entire column moved to Pendembu and was directed to deploy in respective areas of the battalion harbour for the night.
Actions of Daru Link Up Force
The insertion of SF Company and extrication of MILOBs from Kailahun at 0620h signalled the commencement of operations of forces located at Daru. 18 Grenadiers advanced and secured a firm base in conjunction with the Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) of 5/8GR Battalion Group and artillery bombardment.
5/8 GR Advance to Pendembu and Link Up with QRC
5/8 GR columns ex Daru commenced advance immediately on securing of the firm base with the ICVs of Mech-2 Company leading. At approximately 0830h the lead elements came under heavy fire from North of the road 500 metres short of Tikonko. ICVs effectively neutralised the fire and the advance continued. The column again drew fire from houses in Bewobu (RUF Company location) but burst through with all guns blazing. At Kuiva, heavy small arms fire was encountered from jungle on either side of the road and the village. It was initially planned to physically secure and search Kuiva, but the progress of Kailahun columns indicated a possibility of link up and air evacuation on the same day. Therefore, CO decided to continue to advance with speed for Pendembu. Supported by battalion mortars, the column crossed the town by fire and move. The rebels had taken up positions inside the village but after offering initial resistance, fled into the jungle in face of accurate fire leaving ammunition scattered behind. The column moved at good speed suppressing small arms fire using its ICVs. In the meantime, the battalion's QRC was lifted from Daru in two waves of 3 x MI-8s each and captured Area 3 Bridges by heliborne assault. Maintaining momentum, the 5/8 GR column advanced at high speed to link up with the QRC. Enroute a rebel vehicle full of arms and ammunition was chased by the ICVs and recovered by Mot-2 company. At 1230h the link up was established with the QRC and thereafter the battalion column started to deploy on the southern edge of Pendembu.
Securing of Pendembu
Pendembu was the HQ of RUF's No 1 Brigade and its stronghold in the east and a pitched fight was expected. The town was about one kilometre in length and had solid single storeyed cement houses. Tall grass along the road and inside made it ideal for ambushes.
An attack helicopter directed to strafe Pendembu made fivepasses at 1300h and carried out pin point engagement of the known RUF locations in town. In the meantime, the Battalion mortars deployed north of Bridge 3. The CO reviewed the plans and chose Mot 2 Company, to secure the complete built up area of nearly 300 houses and an air head in the south west (SW) portion of Pendembu. First to secure the northern flank, Mech-2 company moved through with all guns blazing and occupied the north edge of the town. Thereafter, the Mot-2 company began its operations by first silencing heavy fire from the SW of the town using ICVs and then using its rifle platoons to clear the houses systematically. A massive RUF cache of arms and ammunition was found. Some rebels were killed in the SW portions by 4 Platoon of Mot 2 Company and more were killed while clearing the armoury by 6 Platoon. Later a suitable airhead was selected along the Pendembu - Daru road. The QRC Company linked up to the SW of Pendembu. Soon thereafter, companies were reorganised, areas allotted and preparation of temporary defences for the night commenced.
Link up with Kailahun Column
At about 1630h the CO led a column to the link up site. The advance through dense jungle was done by boldly employing ICVs and link up was established with the Kailahun party at about 1730h. This column was escorted to Pendembu by about 1900h.
Pendembu Night 15/16 July 2000
Officer Commanding (OC) QRC coordinated the defences at Pendembu and on arrival, the Kailahun columns were guided to their respective areas of responsibility. Throughout the night ,the RUF who tried to probe the defences were, much to their discomfiture, accurately engaged by own fire. The 105mm Light Field Gun (LFG) and the battalion mortars were used to engage likely routes of RUF reinforcements throughout the night.
Helilift Operations
By 0700h Mot 2 Company prepared a helipad and troops earmarked for helilift started to upstick as per their deinduction schedule and the defences were readjusted. The MI-8s started arriving at the helipad at 0815h in a continuous stream. A total of 12 sorties were flown. Mech 1 Company, Mot 1 Company, SF Company, D Company 18 Grenadiers and QRC Company (two Platoons) were deinducted. The last helicopter took off at 1030h.
At about 0930h own troops, deployed to the north of the town reported 50 to 60 armed RUF cadres moving towards the platoon post along the road. They were effectively engaged by an armed helicopter directed by the Adjutant acting as an Air Control Team (ACT). Later, selected RUF bunkers in basement of buildings and their ammunition storage centre were demolished with help of the battalion engineers.
Move Back to Daru
After the last helicopter took off for Daru, the road column comprising of Daru companies, QRC company less two platoons and vehicles of Kailahun Companies started to reel in as per their order of march with Mot 2 Company leading. The Mech 2 Company was told to hold on to the north edge of the town till the last and bring up the rear of the column after conducting a tactical disengagement. Continuous overwatch and intimate fire support was given by one MI-35 helicopter at all times till the column reached Daru. While crossing area 3 Bridge, the CO's party came under fire. The command BRDM was effectively used to silence the fire. The column reached Kuiva without incident. Speculative fire was brought down at all suspected locations by the leading ICVs. The troops deployed for the firm base also started reeling in as 5/8 GR moved back.
Kuiva Ambush
The column had been cautioned to expect a road block cum ambush near Kuiva based on information from radio intercepts and intelligence. At about 1400h scout helicopters also reported that the road had been dug up between Bewabu and Kuiva. At Kuiva, which had been secured by a company of 18 Grenadiers, the CO ordered a halt as the column had extended over a long distance. Suddenly, the column was engaged by rocket launcher (RPG) fire from very short range and a rifle platoon supported by ICVs had to be used to drive the rebels away.
Bewabu Ambush
The column then moved ahead with caution towards Bewabu and at about 1430h, the leading ICVs, short of Bewabu came across a ditch covered by heavy small arms fire from high ground on both sides of the road. The Mot 2 Company Commander, moving just behind the second ICV of the column realised at once that the column was in the killing ground of the ambush. Immediately Number 4 rifle platoon following just behind was ordered to counter ambush on the high ground supported by ICV fire. The firefight continued for next 15 minutes. Attack helicopters were also tasked to strafe both sides of the road to deter the rebels from further interference. Number 6 platoon and the battalion's engineer platoon immediately set about bridging the gap.
Mobai Ambush
While the head of the 5/8 GR column was engaged in tackling the Bewabu road block, the 18 Grenadiers column was following up about six kilometres behind with 2x BMPs of Mech-2 and 2x BRDMs of Mech-1,at the end of the convoy. This convoy, came under heavy fire short of Kuiva. After 10 minutes of exchange of fire, the troops again mounted the vehicles and advanced. After about 500 metres of move, a vehicle carrying artillery ammunition had a direct RPG hit. A Chetak helicopter flew in to pick up the casualty from Kuiva.
The entire convoy thereafter moved at high speed without encountering any resistance and carrying out speculative fire where necessary. With the MI-35 helicopters also providing intimate fire support the convoy made good speed and reached Daru at 1730h.
The build up at Daru and Kenewa was conducted from 13 to 15 July 2000. 3 x MI-26s, 7 x MI-8s, 2 x Chinook helicopters and 1 x RAF C-130 aircraft were pressed into service for the task. Daru being cut off from the rest of government controlled areas, had to be built up by helicopters. By the last light of D minus one (14 July 2000) the build up of forces was completed.
Preparations at Kailahun
The entire operation depended on the successful breakout of Kailahun companies and extrication of MILOBs. The Kailahun company commanders were given a broad outline of the plan and the force commander and commanding officer (CO) also spoke to them regularly on satellite phone (satphone). As most of the troops were to be helilanded and close support was dependent on attack helicopters, the weather conditions for flying were of paramount importance. The two companies were deployed 500 metres from Kailahun on dominating ground . Two helipads within the defended area, were secured by occupying perimeter defence and deploying protective elements.
Air Extrication
On 15 July 2000, the helipad was secured and entire area sanitised by 0600h. Despite bad weather, two RAF Chinook helicopters landed exactly as per plan at 0620h and extricated 44 personnel including 11 MILOBs and war like stores. Enroute the same helicopters had dropped Company 2 PARA(SF), two kilometres South of Kailahun. The RUF had approximately 300 to 400 of its cadre in Kailahun. Due to the arrival of Chinook helicopters the RUF were activated but were effectively engaged by own fire. As per plan the Chinooks were to be followed by three MI-8 escorted by attack helicopters (AH) of Indian Aviation Unit to extricate more stores, however, these helicopters could not take off due to bad weather.
Breakout
Prior to move, a fire assault was delivered for 10 minutes employing fire power of rocket launchers, armoured personnel carries, automatic grenade launchers, 51 mm mortars and medium machine guns. As per the plan Mechanised Company-1 of 5/8 GR (Mech 1 Company) was tasked to capture Town Square in Kailahun and Motorised Rifle Company-1 of 5/8 GR (Mot 1 Company) to capture RUF checkpost astride road Kailahun - Daru. The advance was led by the Ghatak (Commando) Platoon supported by three armoured reconnaisance vehicles (BRDMs). The advance drew fire from QG area and RUF checkpost. QG area was neutralised by Ghatak with support of BRDMs. Thereafter on contacting the town square, a fire base was established by Mech 1 Company and Mot 1 Company assaulted the check post with the Town Square as their forming up place (FUP). The advance of Mot 1 Company towards the barrier came under heavy fire from the RUF but the fierce assault closed in and soon secured the check post. Immediately, the B vehicle column moved out and link up was established with Company 2 Para by Mot 1 Company at the barrier. The fire base at Town Square in Kailahun continued to be in position till all elements had crossed and then disengaged by fire and move. The column quickly advanced towards Giehun with Company 2 Para and BRDMs covering the tail. At around 0930h the attack helicopters arrived and thereafter it was easy to break contact from the RUF who by now had reorganised and were continuously sniping at the rearguard. Around 1030h the road column arrived at Geihun to link up with the INDBATT-2 Company which had been helilanded earlier. The Force Commander landed at Geihun to meet the troops and ordered the helilift of 60 troops to Daru.
Move to Pendembu
After reorganising, the column moved on and encountered two major road blocks in the form of 8 feet wide and 4 feet deep ditches dug on the road covered by small arms and rocket launcher fire. Continuous sniping by rebels and slushy conditions on the road impeded progress. The area was physically secured and bridging stores carried by the column and those dropped by an MI-8 helicopter facilitated speedy bridging. The column met the linkup force under the CO 5/8 GR Battalion Group about 5 kilometres from Pendembu at 1700h, D Day. Thereafter the entire column moved to Pendembu and was directed to deploy in respective areas of the battalion harbour for the night.
Actions of Daru Link Up Force
The insertion of SF Company and extrication of MILOBs from Kailahun at 0620h signalled the commencement of operations of forces located at Daru. 18 Grenadiers advanced and secured a firm base in conjunction with the Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) of 5/8GR Battalion Group and artillery bombardment.
5/8 GR Advance to Pendembu and Link Up with QRC
5/8 GR columns ex Daru commenced advance immediately on securing of the firm base with the ICVs of Mech-2 Company leading. At approximately 0830h the lead elements came under heavy fire from North of the road 500 metres short of Tikonko. ICVs effectively neutralised the fire and the advance continued. The column again drew fire from houses in Bewobu (RUF Company location) but burst through with all guns blazing. At Kuiva, heavy small arms fire was encountered from jungle on either side of the road and the village. It was initially planned to physically secure and search Kuiva, but the progress of Kailahun columns indicated a possibility of link up and air evacuation on the same day. Therefore, CO decided to continue to advance with speed for Pendembu. Supported by battalion mortars, the column crossed the town by fire and move. The rebels had taken up positions inside the village but after offering initial resistance, fled into the jungle in face of accurate fire leaving ammunition scattered behind. The column moved at good speed suppressing small arms fire using its ICVs. In the meantime, the battalion's QRC was lifted from Daru in two waves of 3 x MI-8s each and captured Area 3 Bridges by heliborne assault. Maintaining momentum, the 5/8 GR column advanced at high speed to link up with the QRC. Enroute a rebel vehicle full of arms and ammunition was chased by the ICVs and recovered by Mot-2 company. At 1230h the link up was established with the QRC and thereafter the battalion column started to deploy on the southern edge of Pendembu.
Securing of Pendembu
Pendembu was the HQ of RUF's No 1 Brigade and its stronghold in the east and a pitched fight was expected. The town was about one kilometre in length and had solid single storeyed cement houses. Tall grass along the road and inside made it ideal for ambushes.
An attack helicopter directed to strafe Pendembu made fivepasses at 1300h and carried out pin point engagement of the known RUF locations in town. In the meantime, the Battalion mortars deployed north of Bridge 3. The CO reviewed the plans and chose Mot 2 Company, to secure the complete built up area of nearly 300 houses and an air head in the south west (SW) portion of Pendembu. First to secure the northern flank, Mech-2 company moved through with all guns blazing and occupied the north edge of the town. Thereafter, the Mot-2 company began its operations by first silencing heavy fire from the SW of the town using ICVs and then using its rifle platoons to clear the houses systematically. A massive RUF cache of arms and ammunition was found. Some rebels were killed in the SW portions by 4 Platoon of Mot 2 Company and more were killed while clearing the armoury by 6 Platoon. Later a suitable airhead was selected along the Pendembu - Daru road. The QRC Company linked up to the SW of Pendembu. Soon thereafter, companies were reorganised, areas allotted and preparation of temporary defences for the night commenced.
Link up with Kailahun Column
At about 1630h the CO led a column to the link up site. The advance through dense jungle was done by boldly employing ICVs and link up was established with the Kailahun party at about 1730h. This column was escorted to Pendembu by about 1900h.
Pendembu Night 15/16 July 2000
Officer Commanding (OC) QRC coordinated the defences at Pendembu and on arrival, the Kailahun columns were guided to their respective areas of responsibility. Throughout the night ,the RUF who tried to probe the defences were, much to their discomfiture, accurately engaged by own fire. The 105mm Light Field Gun (LFG) and the battalion mortars were used to engage likely routes of RUF reinforcements throughout the night.
Helilift Operations
By 0700h Mot 2 Company prepared a helipad and troops earmarked for helilift started to upstick as per their deinduction schedule and the defences were readjusted. The MI-8s started arriving at the helipad at 0815h in a continuous stream. A total of 12 sorties were flown. Mech 1 Company, Mot 1 Company, SF Company, D Company 18 Grenadiers and QRC Company (two Platoons) were deinducted. The last helicopter took off at 1030h.
At about 0930h own troops, deployed to the north of the town reported 50 to 60 armed RUF cadres moving towards the platoon post along the road. They were effectively engaged by an armed helicopter directed by the Adjutant acting as an Air Control Team (ACT). Later, selected RUF bunkers in basement of buildings and their ammunition storage centre were demolished with help of the battalion engineers.
Move Back to Daru
After the last helicopter took off for Daru, the road column comprising of Daru companies, QRC company less two platoons and vehicles of Kailahun Companies started to reel in as per their order of march with Mot 2 Company leading. The Mech 2 Company was told to hold on to the north edge of the town till the last and bring up the rear of the column after conducting a tactical disengagement. Continuous overwatch and intimate fire support was given by one MI-35 helicopter at all times till the column reached Daru. While crossing area 3 Bridge, the CO's party came under fire. The command BRDM was effectively used to silence the fire. The column reached Kuiva without incident. Speculative fire was brought down at all suspected locations by the leading ICVs. The troops deployed for the firm base also started reeling in as 5/8 GR moved back.
Kuiva Ambush
The column had been cautioned to expect a road block cum ambush near Kuiva based on information from radio intercepts and intelligence. At about 1400h scout helicopters also reported that the road had been dug up between Bewabu and Kuiva. At Kuiva, which had been secured by a company of 18 Grenadiers, the CO ordered a halt as the column had extended over a long distance. Suddenly, the column was engaged by rocket launcher (RPG) fire from very short range and a rifle platoon supported by ICVs had to be used to drive the rebels away.
Bewabu Ambush
The column then moved ahead with caution towards Bewabu and at about 1430h, the leading ICVs, short of Bewabu came across a ditch covered by heavy small arms fire from high ground on both sides of the road. The Mot 2 Company Commander, moving just behind the second ICV of the column realised at once that the column was in the killing ground of the ambush. Immediately Number 4 rifle platoon following just behind was ordered to counter ambush on the high ground supported by ICV fire. The firefight continued for next 15 minutes. Attack helicopters were also tasked to strafe both sides of the road to deter the rebels from further interference. Number 6 platoon and the battalion's engineer platoon immediately set about bridging the gap.
Mobai Ambush
While the head of the 5/8 GR column was engaged in tackling the Bewabu road block, the 18 Grenadiers column was following up about six kilometres behind with 2x BMPs of Mech-2 and 2x BRDMs of Mech-1,at the end of the convoy. This convoy, came under heavy fire short of Kuiva. After 10 minutes of exchange of fire, the troops again mounted the vehicles and advanced. After about 500 metres of move, a vehicle carrying artillery ammunition had a direct RPG hit. A Chetak helicopter flew in to pick up the casualty from Kuiva.
The entire convoy thereafter moved at high speed without encountering any resistance and carrying out speculative fire where necessary. With the MI-35 helicopters also providing intimate fire support the convoy made good speed and reached Daru at 1730h.
The mission was conducted in a classical VUCA environment, in the absence of geographical information, using tourist maps and borrowing equipment from friendly nations. 2 Para (SF) collected valuable intelligence by conducting recce and inserting its commandos for 7 days at a stretch into the camp in disguise, prior to the launch of the operation, to map the area, carryout liaison and collect Intelligence which enabled the planning and execution of what would become one of the most daring commando operation conducted by the Indian Army on foreign soil.
The units at Kailahun were informed of the plan, and constantly kept in touch with the HQ through Satellite Phones. The operational plans were conveyed in Malayalam to overcome RUF monitoring of communications. Since the operation required insertion by helicopters, the two companies at Kailahun were required to fall back 500 metres from the town itself, and secure two helipads.
On 15 Jul 0600h, before first light, 80 commandos from 2 Para (SF) were inserted into the enemy territory by two British Chinook helicopters. The air assault was carried out under adverse conditions, with heavy rain and poor visibility, and without air and arty support which had to be withdrawn at the last minute due to the inclement weather. The flight time of 25 minutes was extended to 50 minutes and the team commander of 2 Para (SF) stuck to his commitment despite the danger of getting day lighted having to fight without external support. 40 Commandos were inserted close to village Jimila (2514), and 34 Commandos were inserted at the Bandajuma track junction (2512), and the balance six commandos were inserted inside the hostage camp to enable the extrication of Military Observers and others. Last minute changes in plan and cancellation of MI-8 helicopters, meant that the young lieutenant of the Special Forces had to personally inform the change in plan and lead the break out column till the centre of the town.
The use of SAS supplied phosphorus grenades by 2 Para (SF) quickly lay waste the camp and denied any UN stores and supplies that would be left behind while the INDBATT companies conducted the breakout from falling into the RUF hands.
In the meanwhile, the 40 Commandos encountering heavy resistance, from the RUF who were mobilised once the surprise was lost, cleared the road axis and successfully secured the town till the town centre of Kailahun. At the same time, the second team, dropped at Bandajuma, split into two groups, while the first secured the track junction, the second, went ahead to clear the axis till Kenewa. With the Chinooks safely taking off with the 11 Mil observers along with their equipment, the 6 commandos, led the break out of IND BATT with their BRDMs in close support behind them and affected a link with the 40 commandos at the town centre amidst fire from all directions.
The move of the IND BATT break out column was secured by the Special Force Commandos both at the Van and the Rear. This ensured that the tired hostages were kept safe from any possible assault from the now active enemy. The IND BATT column thus secured at both ends was now under hot pursuit from the RUF rebels and caught up with the rear of the foot column approximately 5 km south of Kailahun, 2 Para (SF), under the leadership of its second in command, started laying booby traps along the road in the rear to start slowing down the rebel advance. The ensuing fire fight resulted in major losses to the RUF post which they abandoned the chase.
The weather cleared at 9:30 am, and the UN helicopters were now available for providing a much required air support to the advancing column. The RUF Forces reorganised and taking advantage of dense jungle and knowledge of jungle tracks were constantly sniping down the rearguard, making the advance difficult and slow. The Indian MI-35 attack helicopter on the scene provided fire support to the advancing columns, making their advance much swifter. At 945 hours, the attack helicopters were tasked to provide covering fire to the Mi-8 helicopters and one company of 18th Grenadiers, part the INDBATT-2, were airlifted and dropped off north-east of Giehun, where they awaited the arrival of the Kailahun column.
At approximately 10:20, nearly four hours ahead of schedule, 2 para (SF) affected a linkage with the 18th Grenadiers at Giehun (1807), which had landed there at around 10:00. The force commander landed at Geihun to congratulate the SF team commander for an excellent operation.
After the airlift, the column reorganised and advanced towards Pendembu. They were faced with two major roadblocks along the road, the first was an 8-foot-deep ditch, and the second, a 4-foot-deep one, each covered by troops with small arms and RPGs. Continuous sniping and slushy roads hampered the progress, but the column secured the area, and using bridging stores carried in the column and dropped by the MI-8s, the units crossed the bridges, and continued on their way.
The units at Kailahun were informed of the plan, and constantly kept in touch with the HQ through Satellite Phones. The operational plans were conveyed in Malayalam to overcome RUF monitoring of communications. Since the operation required insertion by helicopters, the two companies at Kailahun were required to fall back 500 metres from the town itself, and secure two helipads.
On 15 Jul 0600h, before first light, 80 commandos from 2 Para (SF) were inserted into the enemy territory by two British Chinook helicopters. The air assault was carried out under adverse conditions, with heavy rain and poor visibility, and without air and arty support which had to be withdrawn at the last minute due to the inclement weather. The flight time of 25 minutes was extended to 50 minutes and the team commander of 2 Para (SF) stuck to his commitment despite the danger of getting day lighted having to fight without external support. 40 Commandos were inserted close to village Jimila (2514), and 34 Commandos were inserted at the Bandajuma track junction (2512), and the balance six commandos were inserted inside the hostage camp to enable the extrication of Military Observers and others. Last minute changes in plan and cancellation of MI-8 helicopters, meant that the young lieutenant of the Special Forces had to personally inform the change in plan and lead the break out column till the centre of the town.
The use of SAS supplied phosphorus grenades by 2 Para (SF) quickly lay waste the camp and denied any UN stores and supplies that would be left behind while the INDBATT companies conducted the breakout from falling into the RUF hands.
In the meanwhile, the 40 Commandos encountering heavy resistance, from the RUF who were mobilised once the surprise was lost, cleared the road axis and successfully secured the town till the town centre of Kailahun. At the same time, the second team, dropped at Bandajuma, split into two groups, while the first secured the track junction, the second, went ahead to clear the axis till Kenewa. With the Chinooks safely taking off with the 11 Mil observers along with their equipment, the 6 commandos, led the break out of IND BATT with their BRDMs in close support behind them and affected a link with the 40 commandos at the town centre amidst fire from all directions.
The move of the IND BATT break out column was secured by the Special Force Commandos both at the Van and the Rear. This ensured that the tired hostages were kept safe from any possible assault from the now active enemy. The IND BATT column thus secured at both ends was now under hot pursuit from the RUF rebels and caught up with the rear of the foot column approximately 5 km south of Kailahun, 2 Para (SF), under the leadership of its second in command, started laying booby traps along the road in the rear to start slowing down the rebel advance. The ensuing fire fight resulted in major losses to the RUF post which they abandoned the chase.
The weather cleared at 9:30 am, and the UN helicopters were now available for providing a much required air support to the advancing column. The RUF Forces reorganised and taking advantage of dense jungle and knowledge of jungle tracks were constantly sniping down the rearguard, making the advance difficult and slow. The Indian MI-35 attack helicopter on the scene provided fire support to the advancing columns, making their advance much swifter. At 945 hours, the attack helicopters were tasked to provide covering fire to the Mi-8 helicopters and one company of 18th Grenadiers, part the INDBATT-2, were airlifted and dropped off north-east of Giehun, where they awaited the arrival of the Kailahun column.
At approximately 10:20, nearly four hours ahead of schedule, 2 para (SF) affected a linkage with the 18th Grenadiers at Giehun (1807), which had landed there at around 10:00. The force commander landed at Geihun to congratulate the SF team commander for an excellent operation.
After the airlift, the column reorganised and advanced towards Pendembu. They were faced with two major roadblocks along the road, the first was an 8-foot-deep ditch, and the second, a 4-foot-deep one, each covered by troops with small arms and RPGs. Continuous sniping and slushy roads hampered the progress, but the column secured the area, and using bridging stores carried in the column and dropped by the MI-8s, the units crossed the bridges, and continued on their way.
SAS spotters on the ground help to guide Indian and British helicopters in rescuing more than 200 UN observers and soldiers held hostage by Revolutionary United Front rebels. (Operation Khukri)
Terrain
The biggest problem in the conduct of operations was the terrain, as the single road axis available between Daru and Kailahun forced extrication along the same axis thereby compromising surprise. lack of local knowledge of terrain vis a vis the rebels, put us at a disadvantage. Due to dense overgrowth and undergrowth, attack helicopters had problems of target identification. The densely wooded country allowed the rebels to effectively snipe at our road columns.
Intelligence
Lack of real time intelligence was due to organisational constraints of the UN which does not cater to gathering intelligence in a host country. We could obtain hard intelligence of limited value through intercepts during the operation itself. Coupled with this was the fact that ELINT and HUMINT capabilities were non existent. Despite being in Kailahun for 75 days, the satellite imagery of the areas was not made available.
The exact location of their reserves was also not known. Nor, did we have any knowledge of the type and quantity of weapons and ammunition that they possessed. It was subsequently revealed that they had a substantial amount of warlike stores and equipment with them. Another advantage that the rebels had, of which we were not aware, was their good radio communications, which enabled them to use their reserves effectively.
Weather
As the operations were launched in the middle of the rainy season, it impacted adversely on own observation, mobility and added to the logistic difficulties. Further, bad weather seriously hampered strikes by own attack helicopters at first light on D Day. Insertion of troops by helicopters to their locations as pivots was delayed due to bad weather. High humidity during the day led to severe exhaustion of troops due to dehydration.
Paucity of Troops
The operation had to be phased due to paucity of troops and helicopters for establishing pivots along the road. All troops of Daru garrison were launched for the operation at the cost of denuding Daru defences. Elements of Nigerian battalion, untried and untested by me and own Engineers were, thus, employed to man these defences.
Collateral Damage
To avoid collateral damage, artillery was initially tasked to fire smoke shells a little off the target to enable civilians to escape. All efforts were made to target only known confirmed RUF held buildings and huts and to avoid collateral damage.
Artillery.
It was probably for the first time that 105mm Light Field Guns (LFG) were used in any UN mission. The difficulties faced in the employment of artillery were as under :-
(a)
A battery, which is designed to fire as a single entity from one location, was required to be divided into four segments, each firing from a different location. The authorisation of fire control equipment and technical instruments in a battery was a major problem in this regard.
(b) Prime movers for guns were not available in the operational area and, therefore, 2.5 ton vehicles had to be modified to serve as towers.
(c)
The desired speed of operations necessitated speedy movement of guns by keeping one or two guns within the battery on ground to cover the move of advancing infantry.
(d)
Limited available artillery resources were used to cover a very large number of targets spread in all directions, over large distances, in order to achieve deception and surprise.
(e)
The problem of communication and observation in undertaking shoots in jungle terrain was partially overcome by employing Air OP.
Air
Air effort was a very complicated part of the operation as it entailed coordinating the efforts of the British Chinook helicopters, the helicopters of the Indian Aviation unit and the helicopters of the Russians who were flying as per their own rules. To highlight this further, the initial plan was to strike at the rebels at Pendembu and Kailahun with the attack helicopters and, thereafter, use the Chinooks to land 2 PARA (SF) as pivots after which they were to land at Kailahun to pick up Military Observers (Milobs), unfit peacekeepers and warlike stores. This plan had to be modified due to the reluctance on the part of the British to fly after the surprise was given away. As Indian attack helicopters did not have night flying capabilities, I had to accede to this change of plan. Further, the Chinooks who were to do additional sorties after the initial insertion of pivots and evacuation of Milobs and others, chose not do so and flew off to Freetown leaving us in the lurch.
The Russians, on the other hand, did not wait for the link up to take place on D Day but flew back to Freetown around noon. This foreclosed my option of completing the operation in one day. Additionally, the lack of flying in all weather conditions, except for the Chinooks, was a problem for the other helicopters; thus delaying operations. Refuelling of helicopters was also a problem as facilities for the same did not exist at Daru.
Other problems pertaining to air operations were as given below:-
(a)
UN helicopters lack all weather capability, which is so essential for such operations undertaken during the monsoons and bad weather.
(b)
Operational area being covered by thick jungles offered limited landing zones to insert and extricate troops.
(c)
Secure radio communication with the ground forces elements was lacking.
(d)
Due to the non-availability of fuel pumps at Daru and Kenema, fuel bowsers had to be transported between Hustings and Kenema/ Daru by using MI 26 helicopters.
(e)
Lack of armour plating and integral self-defence measures on MI-8 made the helicopters extremely vulnerable to ground fire by the rebels. The terrain which is highly undulating with wide spread hillocks all around posed major problems for Nape of the Earth (NOE) flying. Terrain following radars and ground proximity warning systems would have been of great assistance in these kinds of operations.
(f)
At any given time, there were more than eight helicopters operating from a makeshift helipad measuring 300m x 100m at Daru making the helipad space extremely restricted.
(g)
Air space management with 12 helicopters operating in a very restricted area in adverse weather conditions was extremely difficult.
(h)
Only the Special Forces team possessed gloves for slithering. This restricted the options for troop insertion in the area where no landing sites were available. Under slinging of loads could not be carried due to absence of slings.
(i)
The civil contracted MI 26/17/8s restricted their employment to specific areas and specific situations at the discretion of their crew. This aspect severely affected the extrication of foot columns by air from Pendembu.
Logistics
One of the biggest problems was providing logistics support for this operation. To put it mildly, it was a nightmare. This was mainly because of the paucity of resources, made worse by the secrecy which had to be maintained to conceal buildups till the last moment, so that the plan was not compromised. It took dedicated and professional staff work to evolve the logistic plan to support Operation Khukri.
Engineers
Engineer effort was a major problem as the only axis along which the operation was to be conducted was a predictable one and the RUF laid ambushes on it and cratered it, necessitating air dropping of bridging equipment i.e Flexible Duck Boards (FDBs) to assist the Kailahun column in their rearward movement to Pendembu to effect a link up.
Special Forces Operations
In case Special Forces units are inducted into a hazardous UN mission where it is envisaged that they would, in all probability, have to conduct military operations, it is essential that they come well equipped for the same including satellite based Personal Locating Systems (PLS).
Media
The importance of media in the conduct of military operations cannot be over emphasised. In Sierra Leone, the only effective media was the BBC who made much of the so-called assistance provided by the British to the UN forces, which, in fact, was restricted to making two Chinooks available for one sortie. It is well known that the primary aim of the British was evacuation of all the British nationals in Sierra Leone and, during Operation Khukri, the British participated with two Chinooks and a handful of SAS personnel, only because they wanted to ensure the return of a British officer Major Andy Williams, who was incarcerated along with 233 other peacekeepers at Kailahun. To quote Michael Fleshman “The UK dispatched warships and a battalion of elite paratroops to secure Freetown and the strategic international airport. The UK action, taken to permit the evacuation of UK citizens from Sierra Leone, is widely credited with stabilising the defence of Freetown and buying time for the deployment of more and better-equipped UNAMSIL contingents".
The biggest problem in the conduct of operations was the terrain, as the single road axis available between Daru and Kailahun forced extrication along the same axis thereby compromising surprise. lack of local knowledge of terrain vis a vis the rebels, put us at a disadvantage. Due to dense overgrowth and undergrowth, attack helicopters had problems of target identification. The densely wooded country allowed the rebels to effectively snipe at our road columns.
Intelligence
Lack of real time intelligence was due to organisational constraints of the UN which does not cater to gathering intelligence in a host country. We could obtain hard intelligence of limited value through intercepts during the operation itself. Coupled with this was the fact that ELINT and HUMINT capabilities were non existent. Despite being in Kailahun for 75 days, the satellite imagery of the areas was not made available.
The exact location of their reserves was also not known. Nor, did we have any knowledge of the type and quantity of weapons and ammunition that they possessed. It was subsequently revealed that they had a substantial amount of warlike stores and equipment with them. Another advantage that the rebels had, of which we were not aware, was their good radio communications, which enabled them to use their reserves effectively.
Weather
As the operations were launched in the middle of the rainy season, it impacted adversely on own observation, mobility and added to the logistic difficulties. Further, bad weather seriously hampered strikes by own attack helicopters at first light on D Day. Insertion of troops by helicopters to their locations as pivots was delayed due to bad weather. High humidity during the day led to severe exhaustion of troops due to dehydration.
Paucity of Troops
The operation had to be phased due to paucity of troops and helicopters for establishing pivots along the road. All troops of Daru garrison were launched for the operation at the cost of denuding Daru defences. Elements of Nigerian battalion, untried and untested by me and own Engineers were, thus, employed to man these defences.
Collateral Damage
To avoid collateral damage, artillery was initially tasked to fire smoke shells a little off the target to enable civilians to escape. All efforts were made to target only known confirmed RUF held buildings and huts and to avoid collateral damage.
Artillery.
It was probably for the first time that 105mm Light Field Guns (LFG) were used in any UN mission. The difficulties faced in the employment of artillery were as under :-
(a)
A battery, which is designed to fire as a single entity from one location, was required to be divided into four segments, each firing from a different location. The authorisation of fire control equipment and technical instruments in a battery was a major problem in this regard.
(b) Prime movers for guns were not available in the operational area and, therefore, 2.5 ton vehicles had to be modified to serve as towers.
(c)
The desired speed of operations necessitated speedy movement of guns by keeping one or two guns within the battery on ground to cover the move of advancing infantry.
(d)
Limited available artillery resources were used to cover a very large number of targets spread in all directions, over large distances, in order to achieve deception and surprise.
(e)
The problem of communication and observation in undertaking shoots in jungle terrain was partially overcome by employing Air OP.
Air
Air effort was a very complicated part of the operation as it entailed coordinating the efforts of the British Chinook helicopters, the helicopters of the Indian Aviation unit and the helicopters of the Russians who were flying as per their own rules. To highlight this further, the initial plan was to strike at the rebels at Pendembu and Kailahun with the attack helicopters and, thereafter, use the Chinooks to land 2 PARA (SF) as pivots after which they were to land at Kailahun to pick up Military Observers (Milobs), unfit peacekeepers and warlike stores. This plan had to be modified due to the reluctance on the part of the British to fly after the surprise was given away. As Indian attack helicopters did not have night flying capabilities, I had to accede to this change of plan. Further, the Chinooks who were to do additional sorties after the initial insertion of pivots and evacuation of Milobs and others, chose not do so and flew off to Freetown leaving us in the lurch.
The Russians, on the other hand, did not wait for the link up to take place on D Day but flew back to Freetown around noon. This foreclosed my option of completing the operation in one day. Additionally, the lack of flying in all weather conditions, except for the Chinooks, was a problem for the other helicopters; thus delaying operations. Refuelling of helicopters was also a problem as facilities for the same did not exist at Daru.
Other problems pertaining to air operations were as given below:-
(a)
UN helicopters lack all weather capability, which is so essential for such operations undertaken during the monsoons and bad weather.
(b)
Operational area being covered by thick jungles offered limited landing zones to insert and extricate troops.
(c)
Secure radio communication with the ground forces elements was lacking.
(d)
Due to the non-availability of fuel pumps at Daru and Kenema, fuel bowsers had to be transported between Hustings and Kenema/ Daru by using MI 26 helicopters.
(e)
Lack of armour plating and integral self-defence measures on MI-8 made the helicopters extremely vulnerable to ground fire by the rebels. The terrain which is highly undulating with wide spread hillocks all around posed major problems for Nape of the Earth (NOE) flying. Terrain following radars and ground proximity warning systems would have been of great assistance in these kinds of operations.
(f)
At any given time, there were more than eight helicopters operating from a makeshift helipad measuring 300m x 100m at Daru making the helipad space extremely restricted.
(g)
Air space management with 12 helicopters operating in a very restricted area in adverse weather conditions was extremely difficult.
(h)
Only the Special Forces team possessed gloves for slithering. This restricted the options for troop insertion in the area where no landing sites were available. Under slinging of loads could not be carried due to absence of slings.
(i)
The civil contracted MI 26/17/8s restricted their employment to specific areas and specific situations at the discretion of their crew. This aspect severely affected the extrication of foot columns by air from Pendembu.
Logistics
One of the biggest problems was providing logistics support for this operation. To put it mildly, it was a nightmare. This was mainly because of the paucity of resources, made worse by the secrecy which had to be maintained to conceal buildups till the last moment, so that the plan was not compromised. It took dedicated and professional staff work to evolve the logistic plan to support Operation Khukri.
Engineers
Engineer effort was a major problem as the only axis along which the operation was to be conducted was a predictable one and the RUF laid ambushes on it and cratered it, necessitating air dropping of bridging equipment i.e Flexible Duck Boards (FDBs) to assist the Kailahun column in their rearward movement to Pendembu to effect a link up.
Special Forces Operations
In case Special Forces units are inducted into a hazardous UN mission where it is envisaged that they would, in all probability, have to conduct military operations, it is essential that they come well equipped for the same including satellite based Personal Locating Systems (PLS).
Media
The importance of media in the conduct of military operations cannot be over emphasised. In Sierra Leone, the only effective media was the BBC who made much of the so-called assistance provided by the British to the UN forces, which, in fact, was restricted to making two Chinooks available for one sortie. It is well known that the primary aim of the British was evacuation of all the British nationals in Sierra Leone and, during Operation Khukri, the British participated with two Chinooks and a handful of SAS personnel, only because they wanted to ensure the return of a British officer Major Andy Williams, who was incarcerated along with 233 other peacekeepers at Kailahun. To quote Michael Fleshman “The UK dispatched warships and a battalion of elite paratroops to secure Freetown and the strategic international airport. The UK action, taken to permit the evacuation of UK citizens from Sierra Leone, is widely credited with stabilising the defence of Freetown and buying time for the deployment of more and better-equipped UNAMSIL contingents".
Synergisation of all Available Assets. Op KHUKRI was a classical example of synergy of effort. The optimum utilisation of all resources , joint planning (Indian Army, IAF, UNAMSIL forces and the British Forces)and execution resulted in a synergy that multiplied the effectiveness of the assets deployed.
Simultaneity of Operations. Commencing operations simultaneously from Kenema, Daru and Kailahun, and helilanding troops at three places enroute caused utter confusion in the RUF.
Real Time use of Human Intelligence (HUMINT) and Signal Intelligence (SIGINT). During the planning of rescue mission from Kuiva, Pendembu and Kailahun, non availability of air/satellite imagery was a big handicap. The Intelligence Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) of 5/8 GR made nine trips with the ration convoys to covertly note RUF strength, deployments and obtain Global Positioning System (GPS) fixes of RUF targets. This intelligence was later used by the artillery and attack helicopters to engage targets. The Battalion radio monitoring cell did an outstanding job in monitoring RUF communications throughout the three months to build up a clear picture of the RUF activities. Real time monitoring of RUF communications during operations gave a picture of RUF actions regarding move of reinforcements and preparation of ambush/road block sites. These were passed on to the columns and to attack helicopters for verification and engagement.
Good Intelligence of RUF Activities and Intentions. The painstaking study of RUF tactics, organisation, personalities of leaders and updating of activities helped to anticipate reactions correctly.
Deception and Security During Build Up. RUF was successfully kept in the dark about the build up. The RUF was made to believe that the battalion was being replaced hence additional troops were coming as relief. No operational messages were passed on radio and only satphones were used. The unit had made own codes and nick names for places and personalities. All conversation was in Hindi and Gurkhali and for further secrecy, plans were passed over satphone to Kailahun in colloquial Malayalam.
Flexibility in Conduct. The plan had an inherent capacity to be changed as per the progress and situation. The presence of the Force Commander at Daru helped further, as decisions were taken on the spot.
Maintenance of Momentum. Relentless advance by Daru columns and brushing aside ambushes without dismounting added to the speed of advance. Not changing the leading companies at Kuiva and Mobai as planned ensured momentum.
Resolute and Competent Junior Leadership. Op KHUKRI was a series of subunit actions fought independently. The exemplary leadership displayed by junior leaders was infectious and added to the potency of the force.
Use of ICVs to Lead Advance and Break Ambushes. Notwithstanding the dense jungle, ICVs were used to lead the advance. Their mobility and high volume of fire enabled the columns to proceed without dismounting at most of the ambush sites.
Attack Helicopter Support. The attack helicopter was one of the most potent assets and proved very effective in breaking ambushes as well as denying free movement of rebels on the road by day. Combat Air Patrol (CAP) provided to the returning road column on 16 July 2000 was instrumental in its safe return.
Simultaneity of Operations. Commencing operations simultaneously from Kenema, Daru and Kailahun, and helilanding troops at three places enroute caused utter confusion in the RUF.
Real Time use of Human Intelligence (HUMINT) and Signal Intelligence (SIGINT). During the planning of rescue mission from Kuiva, Pendembu and Kailahun, non availability of air/satellite imagery was a big handicap. The Intelligence Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) of 5/8 GR made nine trips with the ration convoys to covertly note RUF strength, deployments and obtain Global Positioning System (GPS) fixes of RUF targets. This intelligence was later used by the artillery and attack helicopters to engage targets. The Battalion radio monitoring cell did an outstanding job in monitoring RUF communications throughout the three months to build up a clear picture of the RUF activities. Real time monitoring of RUF communications during operations gave a picture of RUF actions regarding move of reinforcements and preparation of ambush/road block sites. These were passed on to the columns and to attack helicopters for verification and engagement.
Good Intelligence of RUF Activities and Intentions. The painstaking study of RUF tactics, organisation, personalities of leaders and updating of activities helped to anticipate reactions correctly.
Deception and Security During Build Up. RUF was successfully kept in the dark about the build up. The RUF was made to believe that the battalion was being replaced hence additional troops were coming as relief. No operational messages were passed on radio and only satphones were used. The unit had made own codes and nick names for places and personalities. All conversation was in Hindi and Gurkhali and for further secrecy, plans were passed over satphone to Kailahun in colloquial Malayalam.
Flexibility in Conduct. The plan had an inherent capacity to be changed as per the progress and situation. The presence of the Force Commander at Daru helped further, as decisions were taken on the spot.
Maintenance of Momentum. Relentless advance by Daru columns and brushing aside ambushes without dismounting added to the speed of advance. Not changing the leading companies at Kuiva and Mobai as planned ensured momentum.
Resolute and Competent Junior Leadership. Op KHUKRI was a series of subunit actions fought independently. The exemplary leadership displayed by junior leaders was infectious and added to the potency of the force.
Use of ICVs to Lead Advance and Break Ambushes. Notwithstanding the dense jungle, ICVs were used to lead the advance. Their mobility and high volume of fire enabled the columns to proceed without dismounting at most of the ambush sites.
Attack Helicopter Support. The attack helicopter was one of the most potent assets and proved very effective in breaking ambushes as well as denying free movement of rebels on the road by day. Combat Air Patrol (CAP) provided to the returning road column on 16 July 2000 was instrumental in its safe return.
Operation Khukri established the professional competence of the Indian Army and the Air Force internationally. The other spin offs were, it broke the myth of RUF supremacy and brought them to the negotiating table. It enhanced the prestige of UNAMSIL internationally. It also resulted in improvement in response to orders, brought in cohesiveness in the Force and bolstered the morale of the civil population. Finally, it has also paved the way for further expansion of the UNAMSIL Force.
On successful completion of ‘Operation Khukri', accolades poured in from all over the world including from Mr Kofi Annan, Secretary General UN, who in a letter addressed to me on 17 July 2000 stated, “I should like to extend to you my gratitude and admiration for the thoroughly professional manner in which you, your military staff and the troops on the ground have planned and executed the extraction of the surrounded peacekeepers at Kailahun. The fact that there were only a few casualties on our side is a clear indication of the determination of the force, as well as of its robustness in dealing with any threats emanating from the RUF. I am particularly pleased that this was a truly international operation with the participation of troops from a number of countries, which all played an essential and vital role in the operation".
On successful completion of ‘Operation Khukri', accolades poured in from all over the world including from Mr Kofi Annan, Secretary General UN, who in a letter addressed to me on 17 July 2000 stated, “I should like to extend to you my gratitude and admiration for the thoroughly professional manner in which you, your military staff and the troops on the ground have planned and executed the extraction of the surrounded peacekeepers at Kailahun. The fact that there were only a few casualties on our side is a clear indication of the determination of the force, as well as of its robustness in dealing with any threats emanating from the RUF. I am particularly pleased that this was a truly international operation with the participation of troops from a number of countries, which all played an essential and vital role in the operation".
Sources
http://usiofindia.org/Article/?ano=609 &pubno=550 &pub=Journal
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Khukri
http://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/history/sas-history-2000s.php
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