< 19th October 2005 - Confidence Abounds

21st October 2005 - England Expects,, >

< Back to News Archive



20th October 2005 

Challenging Demo

As an array of Challenger II tanks progressed towards Sgt Otulakowski, CWO Croft and AWO Taylor, they felt that their ear defenders were little protection against the military might of the Black Watch. On 13th October two cadets and a member of staff from Bedford were lucky enough to be invited to attend the annual Land Power Manoeuvre and Fire Power Demonstration at Warminster. Seated amongst Officers from both the British Army and many allied nations, soldiers from the Land Power Training School and a select few invited guests, the three watched displays by the Scottish battalion presenting their tactical and destructive capabilities.

Throughout the day a wide range of vehicles, including two Jaguars from no. 6 Squadron, participated in the two exercises. The first scenario was designed to show how a commander would organise his troops and use all his available means to attack and capture an area, this was excellently done and showed the audience how the elements of surprise and incredible expertise can be used decisively in a conflict situation. 

Sgt Otulakowski checks out a Challenger II Tank

The latter of the exercises was a firepower demonstration, which showed much of the arsenal of the British Army, including vehicles such as the cutting-edge Challenger II tank, the personnel carrying Warrior, and the awesome, long range artillery piece, AS90. The personal weaponry of the soldiers was also shown, such as the General Purpose Machine Gun, which exemplifies both accuracy and force. The display also featured technology employed by the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). This included explosives used to clear minefields by making large craters (covering the audience in dust and dirt) and anti-tank mines. On show for the first time was the new, handheld anti-tank missile, which had astounding destructive capability and range.

Sgt Otulakowski and CWO Croft

Between the two displays the audience were able to look at the vehicles involved and some even got the opportunity to climb inside to experience what it must be like for the occupants of the tanks. This also offered the chance to speak to the drivers, commanders and weapon operators that took part in the display, and ask them some questions.

Overall it was an excellent day for all involved and, while this year only three members of 134 got the opportunity to attend, we wish to take many more cadets next year.