South Korea’s 1st Infantry Division Enhances WMD Removal Capabilities Through Realistic Training

BEMIL 2024.12.04 Views

“Locate and Eliminate.” A soldier from the Invincible Sword Brigade (right) engages in a firefight after entering a building during the 1st Infantry Division’s Integrated Support Task Force (ISTF) training for removing weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) on Tuesday at the Mugun-ri Scientific Training Range in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. / Reporter Kim Byeong Moon

The South Korean Army conducted realistic training to successfully complete its mission of striking and neutralizing suspected enemy weapons of mass destruction (WMD) facilities.

On Tuesday, the 1st Infantry Division carried out ISTF (Integrated Support Task Force) training for WMD removal operations.

This training, which began on Tuesday and runs through Thursday, involved over 300 soldiers from the division’s Invincible Sword Brigade and key combat equipment such as the K10 decontamination vehicle, K4 automatic grenade launcher, K14 sniper rifle, and K16 machine gun.

The exercise aims to enhance ISTF’s operational capabilities in wartime WMD removal missions and to master operational procedures.

To create a realistic training environment, the unit deployed opposing forces inside a simulated enemy WMD facility, set up obstacles along access routes, and designated areas contaminated by chemical weapons or CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) threats. MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) equipment was used to simulate two-way combat and increase the training’s realism.

Additionally, the division’s engineer, CBRN battalions, and the corps’ Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team participated in the operation. The training covered the entire operational process, from deployment to engagement and withdrawal, ensuring seamless execution. The units also verified on-site coordination procedures and strengthened their ability to carry out complex missions.

The 1st Infantry Division plans to use the lessons learned from this training to improve its ability to prevent and respond to WMD threats in future operations.

Captain Jeon Seong Hun, company commander of the Invincible Sword Brigade, said, “This training significantly improved the corps’ integrated support capabilities for WMD removal operations. It also solidified cooperation systems among adjacent units and enhanced our ability to respond to crises.”

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