Urban Warfare Training Facility Opens in Dundee
The British Army has officially opened a new training facility dedicated to urban warfare in Dundee, Scotland. Situated at the Oliver Barracks, this cutting-edge center is designed to simulate a realistic city environment, allowing soldiers to refine their infantry skills, especially in close-quarters combat. This initiative aims to better prepare troops for both domestic operations and international deployments.
The facility is outfitted with advanced technology including smoke, light, and noise devices, which were sourced from the Highland Reserve Force and Cadet Association (RFCA). This equipment is intended to create an immersive training environment that enhances the realism of military exercises. Originally, the site functioned as a Reserve Service compound, but with the necessary legal approvals and support from the Perth-based 7th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland (7 SCOTS), it has been transformed into a state-of-the-art training hub.
Testing the New Facility
Shortly after its inauguration, the new urban warfare training center was put to practical use by reservists from 7 SCOTS. These exercises included the deployment of simulated ammunition, or simunition, allowing soldiers to engage in realistic combat scenarios. This hands-on experience is crucial for building proficiency in urban combat tactics.
Brigadier Lisa Brooks, Commander of the 19th Light Brigade, emphasized the importance of having high-quality local training facilities for reservists. “The opportunity for our Reservists to train locally in high-quality training facilities is immensely important,” she noted. Brooks expressed gratitude to the Highland RFCA for their support in developing this training center, which she believes will greatly benefit other local military units and civilian organizations in the future.
Focus on Readiness and Utility
The establishment of the Dundee facility comes on the heels of the 7 SCOTS’ participation in the British Army’s largest reserve exercise since the Cold War, held in Germany. This year, the battalion is set to focus on lessons learned from contemporary conflicts, particularly the ongoing situation in Ukraine, which highlights the increasingly complex nature of modern battlefields.
In addition to urban warfare training, 7 SCOTS will also conduct exercises in challenging terrains across the UK, particularly in Otterburn. These sessions will not only provide junior leadership training but also serve as an introduction to infantry heavy fire support weapon systems, further enhancing the capabilities of the Army Reserve.
The Role of Reservists
Lt. Colonel David Robertson, Commanding Officer of the 7 SCOTS, highlighted the unique skills that reservists bring to the Army. He stated, “Reservists bring specialized civilian skills that are vital both on and off the battlefield, while acquiring transferable qualifications through training with the Army.” This illustrates the dual benefit of military service, where reservists enhance their civilian careers while contributing to national defense.
As the demands placed on the Army Reserve continue to evolve, Robertson acknowledged that these changes present new opportunities for reservists to embrace the challenges of their roles, both domestically and internationally. This reflects the Army’s commitment to maintaining a versatile and prepared force in an ever-changing global landscape.
