Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion undertook an Urban Operations and Live Fire Tactical Training exercise, Exercise KHUKURI WARRIOR 26. This was a demanding and progressive training package conducted across two phases at Copehill Down Village, Salisbury Plain Training Area and Sennybridge Training Area (SENTA). The exercise also provided junior commanders with valuable opportunities to practise planning, leadership, decision-making and command within realistic operational contexts.
The first phase centred on Urban Operations within the purpose‑built Copehill Down training village. Soldiers were immersed in the complexities of fighting in built‑up areas, developing core competencies. This included movement through urban terrain, target indication, fire control orders, building clearance drills, casualty management, and both defensive and offensive tactics.
Training realism was significantly enhanced through the use of blank ammunition, MRTS, pyrotechnics, and NSPLWs. These effects demanded discipline, clear communication, and confident decision‑making under pressure, reinforcing the fundamentals of urban warfare.
Building on the urban skills acquired in Phase One, the Battalion transitioned to Sennybridge for dry training and live firing serials up to section‑level tactical exercises. This phase rigorously tested marksmanship, fire and manoeuvre, command and control, and battlefield decision‑making in a challenging and authentic combat environment.
A key aim of the exercise was the successful integration of personnel from a wide range of capbadges and departments. This collaborative approach strengthened interoperability, enhanced mutual understanding, and demonstrated the Battalion’s ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force.
