Spanish Special Forces celebrate a decade of training Iraqi units against Daesh

• Cooperation to improve security in Iraq in the face of the jihadist threat has been intensified during this period

The Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) of the Spanish Armed Forces in Iraq celebrates a decade of ongoing presence as part of the International Coalition against Daesh, within the framework of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR).

During this time, the SOTG has established itself as a key element of the international response in support of the Iraqi Government. Its main achievements have been its flexibility and adaptability, which have enabled it to respond precisely to needs at the right time and in the right place, always with the aim of improving security in Iraq and the region as a whole.

From basic training to supporting operational execution

In its early years, and through a continuous adaptation process to the operational environment, the mission focused on training local forces in special operations tactics, techniques and procedures, as well as advising on their execution.

The training has ranged from basic courses to the acquisition of more advanced capabilities, such as the use of explosives, urban combat, precision marksmanship, tactical combat casualty care, and intelligence operations management.

As the OIR has evolved, Spanish support has shifted from a reactive to a more preventive and long-term approach aimed at ensuring that Iraqi security forces can take control of the country's security.

In this context, as the Coalition took shape, responsibilities were distributed, and the Counter Terrorism Service (CTS) units were assigned among the various coalition member countries.

In terms of training, it gradually evolved towards advice, assist, accompany, and enable activities (A3E) in support of Iraqi operations. Among these activities, a key milestone was the gradual expulsion of Daesh from the localities along the Euphrates River, culminating in their defeat in Iraq on 9 December 2017.

Currently, the support focuses on advisory, assistance, and enabling activities (A2E), with an emphasis on the training-operations cycle.

Additionally, in these activities, Special Operations Task Units (SOTU) continue to cooperate with local forces to enhance their operational capabilities. This includes support for the Spartan Series operations of TF-431, which is the official designation of the Spanish SOTG within the Coalition.

Evolution of the SOTG

The SOTG has undergone several changes in composition since its initial deployment, however, it has always maintained a strong joint force character under the command of the Joint Special Operations Command (MCOE).

Thus, the three Special Operations units of the Spanish Armed Forces—the Army’s Special Operations Command (MOE), the Special Naval Warfare Force (FGNE), and the Air and Space Force’s Parachute Sapper Squadron (EZAPAC)—have been part of the Command Staff and have also contributed different SOTUs over the years.

Additionally, the means employed by the SOTG have evolved. Notably, the use of remotely controlled aerial assets (Unmanned Aircraft System/UAS) now provides discreet surveillance through both daytime and thermal cameras.

Moreover, capabilities have been enhanced with precision marksmen, improved communication systems, and the deployment of a K9 canine unit, which is key explosive detection and other missions.

Similarly, cooperation within the international special operations community that makes up the Coalition has facilitated the sharing of advances in tactics, techniques, and procedures, lessons learned, and the improvement and development of materiel and equipment, all with the goal of effectively executing the various special operations missions.

Origins and Mission of the SOTG in Iraq

In 2014, the advance of Daesh posed a major threat to Iraq and regional stability. In response, and following a request from the Iraqi government, the international community united to establish a broad and robust coalition, led by the United States, to dismantle the jihadist network.

Spain initially sent 300 military personnel, including the SOTG, that has been involved in the fight against Daesh and the training of Iraqi forces since his deployment on 22 January 2015.