PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 2, 2018
Coalition trains, equips Iraqi Border Guard Force
CJTFOIR

Dec. 31, 2017

Release # 20171231-01

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOUTHWEST ASIA – The first group of Iraqi Border Guard Force members graduated today from a 12-day program conducted by members of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq.

The Coalition works by, with and through our Iraqi partners to ensure the lasting defeat of Daesh and prevent its ability to transit borders.

The Coalition-enabled training is the first part of an ongoing program to train and equip Iraqi Border Guards, who will secure the nation’s borders using new, rapidly deployable, self-contained border guard equipment sets. Enhanced border guard capabilities will improve national security and international commerce and travel.

“Coalition trainers at Besmayah Training Complex are instructing Border Guard units in the employment of this new system, which is scheduled for distribution along Iraq’s western border during the coming year,” said Col. Brian Ellis, CJTF-OIR director of partner force development. “The training focuses not only on operation of the equipment but also on the tenets of community policing, ethical conduct, human rights, first aid, self-defense and explosive hazard awareness.”

The standardized shipping containers are pre-packaged for efficient transport and setup, and contain essential equipment for border enforcement and security, including two vehicles, defensive barriers, night vision equipment, radios, metal detectors, first aid, checkpoint supplies, a tent, and a generator.

The self-contained border guard equipment program represents a true multinational effort, with the U.S. allocating more than $300 million to Iraq’s border security efforts, and with members of Spanish Guardia Civil (Civil Guard) leading the training. Many other Coalition Forces will be involved in the delivery of the training and rollout of the program throughout the year. This Iraqi Border Guard Force will control cross-border movement and prevent the passage of terrorists across borders.

“Following the liberation of Daesh-occupied areas in Iraq, the Coalition is working with Iraqi Security Forces to ensure remnants of the terrorist group cannot resurface or enjoy freedom of movement,” Ellis said.