EXERCISE BEERSHEBA

Exercise Beersheba at the end of last year gave Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles the opportunity to fire

The exercise saw QAMR’s two Sabre Squadrons, Support Squadron and QAMR’s Reserve Squadron (Waikato Mounted Rifles) deploy in two day blocks where they moved through multiple ranges. The two concurrent static firing lines enabled each Squadron to solidify crew drills, fire control orders and application of fire at ranges of up to 2800m. This was enhanced by the inclusion of troop level engagements which allowed junior commanders to demonstrate their ability to step-up into combined arms fire support roles in support of Combat Team operations.

A third activity was centred around Russell Range (MTR), and provided variable moving targets to be utilised during the conduct of a pairs FMX. This practice consolidated NZLAV gunnery whilst testing crews on their reaction to contact, task element drills and accuracy and timely delivery of reports and returns.

While an unseasonable week of adverse weather played havoc with visibility at times, the heavy rainfall provided saturated ground which reduced the risk of fires and allowed crews to fire various types of ammunition for longer periods without delays.

Exercise Beersheba proved to be a valuable experience for personnel from all trades within QAMR, and was an excellent step forward in the regeneration of operational capability. The associated bonus was that personnel who had not previously been exposed to the effects of service ammunition on various target types were able to appreciate how much battlefield damage a single NZLAV can inflict when employed in roles and positions that complement their strengths.

While the exercise was planned and executed by QAMR’s internal planning and support staff, it was augmented with enduring support from Waiouru Range Control staff, Fire and Emergency crews and logistics.