Expanding Forward Operating Bases in Afghanistan
Abstract
The Soldiers of Task Force Pacemaker completed numerous road construction missions during their deployment to Afghanistan. However, their nation building efforts and major infrastructure improvements could not be conducted until they first constructed safe havens to operate from. Three forward operating bases (FOBs) were constructed and two existing FOBs were expanded across southeastern Afghanistan. The expansion of the Sharana Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) base is a good example of military construction in Afghanistan. An analysis of this project provides valuable lessons learned that can be applied to the construction of future base camps in austere areas. The Sharana PRT base is located outside of the city of Sharana. On open terrain with good drainage and no local national property rights issues, it was ideal for expansion from a small base to a larger logistical and operational hub. Sharana, the capital and second largest city in Paktika Province, had a network of roads that required improvement to support the new democratic local government. The expansion of the Sharana PRT base allowed the construction of improved gravel roads in an area long deprived of a reliable transportation network. Linking the capitals of Paktika and Paktia Provinces to the main paved ring road system the major trade roads that form a loop by connecting major cities allowed the central government of Afghanistan to move more freely in areas that were isolated from government influence. Medical assistance, international aid, and security from the Afghan National Army and the Afghan National Police were all benefits to the Afghan people resulting from the FOB and road construction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA596611
Entities
People
- Nicholas O. Melin
Organizations
- United States Army Engineer School