In rain, wind, fog, snow and a few flashes of sun, Dutch marines have once again conducted Mountain Training based from Åsegarden Camp on the edge of Harstad.

Steep walk up "Tverrtindan"

300 marines from 1 Battalion Marine Training Command (earlier Royal Netherlands Marine Corps) stayed in Åsegarden from 22 September to conduct their 5-week training package.

The aims and objectives of the training were to improve individual skills and then to improve skills at section level and troop level. This included moving, surviving and operating in varying mountainous terrain.

Happy marines in alpine terrain

They were approximately following the same program as they did last autumn. During the 2 first weeks the marines practised different river crossing techniques, deathslides, cliff assaults, walked 1, 2 and 3-day marches and various night marches. The marches have all been carried out in different local mountainous areas.

Walking down from "Tverrtindan"

River crossing

Dutch mortar crew

Unfortunately, the Costal Ranger Commando (CRC) was not able to conduct cross training with their Dutch counterparts this year. The FTX therefore had a completely changed scenario from last year. They concentrated in a much smaller area and involved less disciplines.

Dutch rifle man

MT 05 started at the same time as the local moose-hunting season. Despite this, there were no conflicts between the two parties. ATS/N continuously informed the moose hunters where, when and what training was going on. A moose hunter came to Åsegarden to brief the marines about all the aspects around moose hunting. Due to this information both parties had a better understanding of each other’s interests and they were able to avoid each other.

Brief moose hunt

The mountainous terrain in the local training area is challenging and should not be underestimated. The weather was mostly rain and wind, changing to freezing and snow towards the end. Valuable daylight hours continued to reduce during the period. These two factors alone made MT 05 a valuable training experience for the Dutch marines and provided the necessity for a steep learning curve to enable the young Marines to continue to soldier in the harsh climate.