Operation Barras | UK Special Forces | SAS & The Parachute Regiment | Summer 2000

#sbs special boat service #special forces uk #special forces in action #operation barras #sierra leone

The UK military's first real fight of the 21st Century was a daring raid against 2 enemy strongholds defended by a fearless enemy in the heart of the African jungle.

Late Summer, 2000 in war-torn Sierra Leone - whilst on a UN peacekeeping mission, a group of Royal Irish Rangers were on patrol in heavily armed WMIK Land Rovers when they were captured by a ruthless gang of rebels, known as 'The West Side Boys'.

The rebels contacted the British authorities, demanding various ransoms and concessions. To aid negotiations, the British supplied the rebel leader, Foday Kallay, with a satellite phone, which also enabled them to pinpoint the West Side Boy's location.

The battle raged for many hours before it was deemed safe enough to call in the Chinooks to extract the hostages and assault teams. The SAS lost one man, named as Brad Tinnion, whilst the Paras had 12 wounded, 1 seriously.

At least 25 rebels were confirmed killed although the number may be much higher as many may have been killed by gunship attacks along the treelines. The leader of the West Side Boys, Foday Kallay, had been captured in the raid. The 3 WMIKs belonging to the Royal Irish Rangers were also recovered.

Operation Barras had been a resounding success. It was the first time that the SAS had worked with the SBS integrated into their fireteams. It was also the first time that the Paras had been deployed alongside USKF.

Видео Operation Barras | UK Special Forces | SAS & The Parachute Regiment | Summer 2000 канала Special Forces Missions Explained