202nd Battalion training exercise . Photos: IDF Spokesperson, Itamar Hassan

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The 202nd Battalion of the Paratrooper Brigade completed their first training exercise since the end of the Operation Cast Lead on Thursday (Mar. 12).  The battalion simulated various combat scenarios with emphasis on preparing for combat in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.

The week long training exercise, which began in Elyakim military base, concentrated on defense and preparation.  "This week we teach our soldiers and commanders to combat the enemy and provide them with the tools required for this type of fighting," said the Commander of 202nd Battalion, Lt. Col. Udi.

The Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, was accompanied by the Paratrooper Brigade Commander, Col. Hartzi Halevy, and observed part of the exercise.  "During this activity it we simulated a real situation where explosive devices and gunfire are directed at our forces," explained the Company Commander Capt. Shaul Almadawi, "We also used simulated mortars and rocket fire to make it as real as possible."

"I believe that following this week the battalion will have the right foundations in order to fight against the enemy," summed up Lt. Col. Udi.