Personnel from the Mozambican Armed Forces successfully complete individual combat test with guidance from the European Union mission

•  Spanish military personnel were involved in coordinating the exercise

The European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique (EUMAM MOZ) continues to support the Mozambican Armed Forces (FADM) in strengthening their operational capabilities. In this context, the Army’s 1st Rapid Reaction Company has successfully completed the Individual Combat Test (PIC), a key milestone in its regeneration cycle.

This activity assesses whether new members of the unit meet the required physical, technical and tactical standards before commencing the levelling-off and specialised training phase.

The test consisted of a three-kilometre course through a mixed terrain of woodland, marshy areas and beach. The route was designed to replicate real-world conditions of fatigue, uncertainty and mounting pressure, forcing the commandos to maintain their concentration in critical circumstances.

Along the route, participants had to complete nine technical stations to assess essential skills in the handling of explosives and weapons (assembly and disassembly), communications, surveying, movement under pressure, marksmanship, abseiling, first aid and the handling of prisoners.

The exercise provided an opportunity to assess discipline, decision-making under stress and mastery of fundamental procedures. These qualities are essential for operating in complex scenarios, particularly in the north of the country, where the FADM face irregular threats.

One of the highlights was the involvement of veteran commandos in organising and supervising the stations. Their participation not only reinforces the internal transfer of knowledge and lessons learnt in the field, but also consolidates the leadership of Mozambican officers and strengthens the QRF’s cohesion towards achieving autonomous operational capability.

The exercise was led by FADM instructors with methodological support and technical advice from EUMAM MOZ mentors. This approach is in line with the European Union’s ‘training of trainers’ principle, which aims to support local forces without replacing them.

Spain contributes directly to this multinational effort by leading the EUMAM MOZ Training and Mentoring Section. From this position, Spanish military personnel coordinate activities that enhance the readiness of allied units. Having successfully completed the PIC, the Army’s 1st QRF is ready to move on to the specialised training modules that will enhance its effectiveness in the area of operations. Under the motto “We Are Together”, EUMAM MOZ and the FADM are building professional armed forces that are well-prepared and committed to international humanitarian law and the protection of the civilian population.