Kofi Ampeah Woode
The Army Combat Training School (ACTS) conducted its Final Field Training Exercise (FFTX) for the second batch of courses for 2024, to provide students with practical experience, and test their tactical handling of a Battle Group in conventional war setting and special operations.
The FFTX was held in the general area of Bundase from 21 to 27 September 2024 for Combat Team Commanders’ Course 2-24 (CTCC 2-24), Young Officers’ Course 2-24 (YOC 2-24), Advanced Non-Commissioned Officers’ Tactical Course 2-24 (ANTC 2-24), Basic Medium Machine Gun Course 1-24 (BMMGC 2-24), Basic Infantry Platoon Weapons Course 1-24 (BIPWC 1-24), and Basic Mortar Course 1-24 (BMC 1-24).
This exercise also aimed to familiarize students with the tactical deployment of supporting arms and weapons, as well as reconnaissance in different phases of war, as students were physically challenged to endure combat operations in adverse conditions, testing their resilience and combat readiness.
Students underwent comprehensive training in Battle Procedure, Hasty and Deliberate Defence, Deliberate Attacks, and Administration of Troops in the field. Students also exercised in Raid, Ambush and Air Inserted Patrols.
Set at the Battle Group Level, the exercise was supported by the Ghana Airforce. Air platform including an M17 Helicopter, and a K8 Fighter Ground Attack aircraft men used to support the exercise to enhance student understanding of interoperability.
The successful completion of the FFTX 2-2024 underscores the commitment of ACTS to providing realistic and comprehensive training experiences for its students, for not only did the exercise enhance the tactical skills of the students, but it also instilled a culture of safety and preparedness.
Furthermore, the exercise emphasized the critical role of adequate medical support during field exercises, especially in challenging terrains, to ensure the well-being of the students and supporting units.
The skills and experiences gained during this exercise will undoubtedly contribute to the overall readiness and effectiveness of the students in fulfilling their duties within the military.
Credit: ACTS HQ
