An Allen-Vanguard-led consortium has delivered Explosive Threat Reduction Team (ETRT) training courses to Somalia security forces personnel. The courses are designed to enhance Somalia’s indigenous capability to detect and destroy explosive ordnance (EO) and conduct improvised explosive device disposal (IEDD).

[Editor’s Note: On 16 May, US President Joe Biden signed an order authorizing deployment of hundreds of Special Operations forces inside Somalia.]

The consortium of prime contractor Allen-Vanguard, SKA International (logistics) and Artios Global (training) delivered two ETRT courses to the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force. The courses are in full compliance with United Nations Mine Action Services (UNMAS) IEDD standards.

Cam Baldry, Artios PM, said, “The Somali security forces were extremely well motivated and keen to learn. We were impressed at their professionalism and diligence and are confident that they’ll implement these new skills and techniques to great operational effect”.