UPDF Graduates Gain Advanced Expertise In Battalion Support Weapons

A total of 91 trainees have graduated from the Battalion Support Weapon Course (Intake 02) at Labwordong Training School in Agago District, completing intensive training in specialised weapon systems.

The course, which began on 26 May 2025, produced 89 male and 2 female graduates drawn from Alpha, Bravo and Charlie Battalions. They received training on the 14.5mm Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun, 82mm and 60mm mortars, 12.7mm AAC Type W85, 12.7mm AAC Type M02, RPG 40mm, 82mm Recoilless Rifle and the 7.62mm PK machine gun.

Presiding over the pass-out ceremony, Deputy Division Commander Col David Opeero, representing Division Commander Maj Gen Keith Katungi, commended the school commandant and staff for their commitment. He urged the graduates to exercise confidence and composure while firing to ensure precision, stressing the importance of resilience, mental strength and physical fitness. “The graduates should demonstrate leadership by training and mentoring others who may later attend similar courses,” he said.

Col Simon Ogwal, Commandant of Labwordong Training School, underscored the value of continuous training to sharpen skills and instil confidence.

Course coordinator Lt Col D.A. Ntimba, Commander of the 12 Artillery Regiment, noted that the soldiers had mastered both the theoretical and practical aspects of the weapons. He added that they were also trained in GPS use, compass reading and map bearings, which they demonstrated during the ceremony.

Lt Col Ntimba thanked the Division Commander for authorising the programme and urged field commanders to deploy the graduates in line with their specialisations. With their advanced skills, the new graduates are expected to strengthen the UPDF’s operational readiness and effectiveness