Convoys in Iraq need protection, especially when they consist of cargo and fuel to outlying bases. All the convoys for central and northern Iraq come from Camp Anaconda, in Balad, Iraq. It’s 65 miles north of Baghdad. Eventually, it will be a permanent base and has an airport. Early convoys were protected by humvees and 5-ton trucks. As the threat of insurgents has become more dangerous, the forces are also guarding convoys with the new Stryker teams.
Some consider Strykers to be the Porsche of armored vehicles. Weighing 34 tons, they have a top speed of more than 70 miles per hour and are very maneurverable. A crew of six — a driver, a gunner who mans the 50-caliber machine gun and MK-19 grenade launcher, and four dismounts who are heavily armed and can respond with small arms fire — mans a Stryker.
Thanks to Kali for the link.
Making tracks
Here's an article describig some of the convoy escort operations. There are some great photos included as well.
[Link to Full Article]Story and photos by Harry Gerwien, Soundings Staff
Convoys in Iraq need protection, especially when they consist of cargo and fuel to outlying bases. All the convoys for central and northern Iraq come from Camp Anaconda, in Balad, Iraq. It’s 65 miles north of Baghdad. Eventually, it will be a permanent base and has an airport. Early convoys were protected by humvees and 5-ton trucks. As the threat of insurgents has become more dangerous, the forces are also guarding convoys with the new Stryker teams.
