"If we were to leave this summer along with all other UK forces, then I
assess that, although limited maritime operations would continue, there
would be a considerable delay to Iraqi Navy forces achieving full and
effective operations across the full spectrum of required capability,"
Ingram said.
Officials said the British would focus on enhancing the Iraq Navy's
ability to protect its port of Umm Qasr. The port has become increasingly
busy with crude oil exports.
CNATT-UQ contains 90 personnel from the militaries of Britain and the
United States. British sailors have been training and mentoring Iraqi
sailors and marines as they prepare to receive new platforms in 2009.
"The training programme for the Iraqi maritime forces is now kicking up
another notch and a series of high profile visits by the UK and U.S. has
recently demonstrated the commitment and importance of this area of work,
which will continue after the main bulk of UK forces withdraw from southern
Iraq," the British Defence Ministry said on Jan. 20.
Officials said the Iraq Navy would receive at least 20 Defender-class
Fast Small Boats from the United States in early 2009. They said the navy
would also accept delivery of four Italian-origin patrol ships, 15 patrol
boats and two Offshore Support Vessels.
The preparation for the delivery of the new patrol ships has included
training of Iraqi sailors on the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Aquidneck. The
Aquidneck was said to be similar in size to the new patrol ships.
"The impact of the CNATT UQ's efforts will result in a capable,
efficient and proud Iraqi navy, and will be felt for many years," Ingram
said.
