Exercise Predators Run 2023 (Ex PR23) proved to be a vital turning point and learning experience for Delta Company (D COY) as they look to become a littoral focused light infantry company for 2024 and into the future. Activities on Ex PR23 such as the small boat familiarisation at Gunn Point with the 1st Combat Engineer Regiment’s boat platoon gave members of D COY their first real exposure to open water insertions and tactical formations on the water. D COY gained experience in environment effects on moving and infiltrating on a small boat.

The small boat familiarisation was invaluable and the soldiers learned lessons rapidly as they conducted the rehearsals and subsequent tactical boat infiltration as Combat Team Delta onto Channel Island for a Battle Group clearance. These activities proved concepts, set expectations and built experience for the members of the company and all those that supported it.

The soldiers of D COY gained a hunger for littoral operations during Ex PR23 and fortunately that appetite is being satiated as the company starts the qualification process as small boat operators and commanders in early 2024.

MAJ Nathan Lee