The Australian Defence Force has concluded its contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Logistics Training Advisory Team (LTAT) at the Afghan National Army (ANA) Central Supply Depot in Kabul.
Eleven Australian Army personnel deployed with the LTAT as part of Operation SLIPPER were recognised for their efforts during an end of mission ceremony on 13 July 2014.
Commander Joint Task Force 633, Major General (MAJGEN) Craig Orme, said the end of Australia’s contribution to the LTAT marked a significant ISAF milestone in the long-term logistics management training of the ANA.
“These Australian personnel are the last of four highly successful rotations to assist the ANA in developing a strong logistics capability for the future,” MAJGEN Orme said.
“This mission, originally part of the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan and then ISAF Joint Command, has demonstrated the professionalism of our personnel and also helped forge strong relationships with our Afghan and international partners.”
Logistics for the Afghan National Security Forces’ 350,000 personnel, particularly for the ANA, will be vital for ensuring Afghanistan’s future stability and prosperity.
Officer Commanding LTAT Rotation Four, Major (MAJ) Troy Williams, said their key role was advising their ANA counterparts at the ANA Central Supply Depot in Kabul which serves all ANA units throughout Afghanistan.
“Members of the team have done themselves and Australia proud in the way that they have completed this mission,” MAJ Williams said.
“Our deployment continued the successes of the three previous rotations. We were set in a very good position when we arrived.
“Thanks must go to the families back home who have provided their loyal support to the team members throughout their deployment.”
Australia’s first rotation of LTAT personnel deployed to Kabul in July 2012 with 42 Australian Navy, Army and Air Force personnel contributing over the past four rotations.
There are currently approximately 400 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed within Afghanistan under Operation SLIPPER.