Six explosive ordnance disposal technicians assigned to the Air Force’s 447th EOD unit in Mahmudiyah, Iraq, worked with members of the Iraqi Army’s 17th Bomb Disposal Company on Nov. 24 to destroy a large stockpile of captured munitions at a range outside of Baghdad. This controlled detonation is part of the US military’s ongoing efforts to mentor and train the Iraqis in establishing their own EOD capability. “Today we are teaching them basic demolition procedures,” said TSgt. David Fields, a technician with the USAF unit. He added, “By teaching them these basic principles, we are hoping it will instill in them the information and tools they will need once this mission fully transitions to their unit.” (Baghdad report by TSgt. Joseph Kapinos)
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.