Quote:
Originally Posted by Ray
The interview with Brig Slater, Commander of the JTF which operated in Timor, gives a glimpse about how the Australians operate, but then I would say Afghanistan is no Timor!
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The afghan combat contingent is very very different from timor leste.
the afghan combat forces are primarily special forces with support by commando elements. Currently 1000+ personnel are in theatre. if you are familiar with Commonwealth OPSEC (in partic UK, NZ and Canada all follow a similar policy to ADF and AustGOv releases) you'll note that the official site is more or less meaningless as far as figures, roles and actual warfighting info.
timor leste involved small special forces units in the opening 72 hrs and then basically became backed up by regulars and reservists. TL also involved opening support with SBS (not the UK SAS as was commonly reported), Irish Rangers and Kiwi SAS.
AustGov policy is similar to UK, Canada and NZ - ie no or minimal information is provided on combat activity.
Aust SAS are operating in a proscribed area, but have also been involved with providing recce attachments for US specforces and regular elements.
There is minimal info that can be included for the public domain,