Media Release, 6.05pm 27 August 2021
The Defence Forces (DF) conducted an ECAT (Emergency Civil Assistance Team) operation in support of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Over the last week the Defence Forces (DF) conducted an ECAT (Emergency Civil Assistance Team) operation in support of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). A joint DFA / DF team deployed to Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan to assist Irish citizens, residents and visa holders to evacuate amid the evolving situation in the country. The DF element of the team included members of the DF Special Operations Forces unit, the Army Ranger Wing (ARW). On deployment the team secured the DFA personnel on the ground, liaised with key actors in the airport and assisted DFA in the processing and evacuation of identified Irish citizens/dependents. The team were also on standby to provide medical assistance if required. The teams’ deployment and recovery were supported by both the Irish Air Corps and Partner Nation aircraft.
The ARW is the Special Operations Force of the Irish Defence Forces. The ARW trains and maintains the capability to respond to crisis situations at short notice using DF assets or with support from Partner Nations.
ENDS
Note:
For more information on the Army Ranger Wing, please visit:
For more photographs on the ECAT operation, please visit:
