For the first time, the soldiers of the Italian Army of the "Praesidium" Task Force, at the request of the Iraqi counterpart, provided veterinary assistance to the anti IED (K9) dog assets of the Iraqi anti-terrorism units (Counter Terrorism Service - CTS) through an ad hoc program aimed at promoting the full efficiency of the CTS canine units deployed in the sensitive points of the defensive organization of the Mosul Dam area.
Le Counter Terrorism Service they use the K9 assets as a tool to combat terrorism in the main road blocking points that lead to the dam area, manned by the Dimonios of the 151st “Sassari” infantry regiment. The valuable and important structure in contrasting the threat posed by possible car bombs - Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device - needs to be constantly maintained in full physical and operational efficiency. For this reason, the “Praesidium” Task Force, at the request of the Counter Terrorism Service with which they cooperate in the integrated defensive system of the Mosul Dam, they have supported the Iraqi K9 units through an accurate veterinary control protocol, established by the Italian veterinary specialists.
The veterinary protocol aims to best support the delicate work of the Iraqi security forces engaged, in coordination with the coalition, in combating the terrorist threat.
Specifically, the Italian support to the Iraqi K9 units expressed itself and will continue to express itself through visits and administration of treatments - corroborated by instructions on animal management - aimed at reducing the spread of incapacitating diseases such as to make the K9 structures used for the fight against terrorism.
The "Praesidium" Task Force, based on the 151st "Sassari" Infantry Regiment, as part of the "Inherent Resolve" operation is the Task Force responsible for protecting the Mosul dam in coordination with local security forces, such as Counter Terrorism Service, National Security Service e Iraqi Police.
In addition to ensuring the defense of the dam, a site of strategic interest for Iraq, the “Praesidium” Task Force guarantees the safety of USACE's military and civilian personnel and of the Italian workers involved in infrastructure rehabilitation.
