UPDF Student Officers Sharpen Tactical Skills During Mountain Division Field Visit

Student officers from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) School of Artillery and Air Defence (SAAD), Katakwi have completed a field study tour of the Mountain Infantry Division, gaining critical insight into the practical application of the Combined Arms strategy in conventional warfare.

The visit, held in Muhooti Barracks, Kabarole District, formed part of the Regimental Officer Gunnery Course and Battery Commanders Course. It aimed to deepen the officers’ understanding of joint staff functions, bilateral military cooperation, and civil-military engagement, cornerstones of the ongoing Operation Shujaa in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Colonel Rogers D. Kitwara, Commandant of SAAD, praised the Mountain Division leadership for providing a valuable opportunity for hands-on learning. “This kind of exposure enhances the students’ capacity for strategic planning, command, and administration in today’s complex security environment,” said Col Kitwara.

Representing the Mountain Division Commander, Maj Gen James Birungi, Colonel Alex Otim Ejangu, Commander of the Anti-Aircraft Brigade, emphasised the value of continued joint operations under Operation Shujaa.

He stated, “The collaboration between the UPDF and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) has played a significant role in restoring peace and stability in Eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.”

Col Ejangu further highlighted that the sustained operations have not only delivered military success but also brought socio-economic improvements to communities previously affected by insecurity.

Also in attendance were Commanding Officers and Principal Staff Officers.