Australian Special Forces soldier wounded in Afghanistan

An Australian Special Forces soldier has been wounded during a partnered mission in Uruzgan province yesterday (6 June 2013).

Members of the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) were conducting a disruption operation 45km north-west of Tarin Kot when the soldier sustained a gunshot wound.

The SOTG’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel J (who cannot be named for operational security reasons), said the soldier was conscious, interacting with medical staff and had spoken with his family.

“The soldier received immediate treatment from his mates on the ground, who have been trained to handle potentially life-threatening situations,” Lieutenant Colonel J said.

The soldier was evacuated by helicopter to the Role 2 medical facility at Multi National Base – Tarin Kot and has since been transferred to Kandahar’s Role 3 NATO medical facility for further medical treatment.

“He will continue to receive the very best medical treatment,” Lieutenant Colonel J said.

Lieutenant Colonel J said the Afghan National Security Forces, enabled by the Special Operations Task Group, continued to maintain pressure on the insurgency.

“The ANSF and Australian Special Forces continue to disrupt insurgent networks in Uruzgan province making it a safer place for the people of Afghanistan.”

Defence will provide ongoing support to the soldier’s family.

The soldier's personal details will not be released.

Media contact:

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999