GARRC Personnel attempt to Summit Mount Toubkal in Morocco
By Private Ankit Sinjali, Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion
Fourteen personnel from Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (GARRC) Support Battalion deployed to Morocco in April 2026 on Exercise WYVERN ATLAS STRIKE (Ex WAS). The exercise was designed to develop mountain skills, teamwork, and leadership in a demanding environment. Led by Captain Mehar Gaha (Senior Mountain Leader), the group maintained high motivation and strong coordination with Moroccan counterparts. His engagement with local communities, including learning basic Arabic, further strengthened rapport.
On arrival in Marrakech, they were welcomed by the Royal Moroccan Gendarmerie and Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. Their support throughout the deployment left a strong impression.
From Marrakech, the team moved to Imlil to begin the mountain phase, progressing through Tachedirt, Mattat, and Tizi Oussem. Increasing altitude, long ascents, and cold mornings tested endurance, but the team remained disciplined and focused, reinforcing the value of teamwork and mutual support.
On 28 April, the group reached Toubkal base camp with the intention of summiting Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Deteriorating weather and poor visibility led Expedition Lead Staff Sergeant (SSgt) Kulbir Sapkota Pariyar to make the difficult but correct decision to turn back, prioritising safety. SSgt Kulbir later stated, “Turning back was the hardest decision, but it was the right one. The mountain will still be there, but my priority is always the safety of my soldiers.” This decision highlighted a key leadership lesson from the exercise. It demonstrated that achieving the objective must never come at the expense of safety, and strong leadership requires the confidence to make difficult calls when conditions demand it.
Following the descent, the team spent time with Moroccan partners in Imlil, sharing food, music, and experiences, further strengthening relationships. The final phase in Marrakech included cultural visits and reflection on the exercise.
Five personnel achieved the Summer Mountain Foundation qualification, and all fourteen gained valuable experience operating in mountainous terrain under pressure. Ex WAS successfully built confidence, resilience, and leadership, delivering its aims despite not reaching the summit.
