The 57th TAD Orion Contingent Prepares for the Handover to the Incoming Contingent After a Final Week of Intense Activity

• Activities have included, among others, maintenance of base equipment and facilities, a live-fire exercise, and the official presentation of decorations to the detachment

The 57th contingent of Tactical Air Detachment (TAD) Orion has maintained a high operational tempo until the very last moment. While the detachment prepares for the arrival of the D.4 aircraft and the incoming contingent for the inter-monsoon period, numerous activities have been carried out during the final week of deployment.

Teams from the medical, IT and communications sections, drawn from different units, conducted a series of inspections and tasks. These included the fumigation of sensitive areas, analysis of water samples from the facilities, and security updates to several IT systems. All these checks form part of the standard procedures for contingents deployed outside national territory and aim to ensure maximum functionality of all systems prior to the handover.

These inspections are particularly relevant in Djibouti due to the extreme climate conditions and high temperatures that can directly affect different systems. Such assessments are essential to guarantee the efficiency of all systems and the highest level of operational readiness of personnel.

Live-fire exercise at Camp Lemonnier

Force Protection and Support personnel from the 57th contingent of TAD Orion took part in a live-fire exercise using the simulator at the U.S. base Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti. This training, which enhances skills and reaction time in tactical situations, was monitored by a U.S. instructor who supervised the drills on the firing line.

During this training, the airmen belonging to the Second Air Deployment Support Squadron (SEADA), demonstrated outstanding adaptability and excellent preparation, highlighting their ability to operate under demanding physical conditions and stress. These live-fire drills strengthen response capability to any potential threat, ensuring greater flexibility and effectiveness in operations.

Award ceremony

Finally, at French Air Base 188 Colonel Massart, a decoration ceremony was held for the air force personnel of the 57th Orion contingent in recognition of their dedication and commitment during their deployment in Operation EUNAVFOR Atalanta. The ceremony was presided over by Commander Alberto Romeralo de la Cruz, Commander of TAD Orion Force, who awarded the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Service Medal to those personnel participating in the mission for the first time, and presented a certificate of recognition to those who had previously deployed. This recognition highlights both the individual and collective efforts of the contingent, as well as the importance of their contribution to the success of Operation Atalanta.

During its mission, now nearing completion, the 57th contingent has played a key role in preparing the detachment to ensure that facilities and resources were ready for the arrival of the D.4 aircraft and the incoming, larger contingent. At the same time, relations with Allied and partner forces in the region have been consolidated and strengthened, while significant civil-military cooperation activities have continued to be developed.