Background
On 10 April 2010, the EU launched a training mission (EUTM Somalia) in order to contribute to strengthening the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and the institutions of Somalia.
The mission involves over 140 EU military personnel, supporting a range of operations, including training for local military personnel, as well as providing advisory and mentoring activities. Initially, operations took place in Uganda; now all activities are based out of Mogadishu, Somalia.
An essential prerequisite for any EUTM mission is the ability to wrap an envelope of medical care around deployed staff. With this in mind, the EUTM set about establishing a Role 2 damage control surgical facility within the secure confines of Mogadishu airport. Iqarus took part in a competitive tender to deliver the project and, in December 2017, was awarded the contract.
This project follows a number of turnkey medical capability projects in Somalia, including the provision of a medical evacuation support team operating out of four hubs in Somaliland and Puntland between 2012 and 2013.