Three Australian Special Forces soldiers wounded in Uruzgan province

Three Australian Special Forces soldiers were wounded during a Special Operations Task Group operation to disrupt insurgent networks in Uruzgan province on 19 January 2013.

One soldier sustained a gunshot wound to the lower leg after the combined force element was engaged by insurgents using small arms fire.

A second soldier sustained a gunshot wound to the hand in a later engagement.

Medically trained personnel provided immediate treatment at the incident site. The soldiers were then separately evacuated by helicopter to the Role 2 Medical Facility at Multi National Base – Tarin Kot.

Both soldiers are now in the Role 1 Medical Facility, where they are in a satisfactory condition. Plans are underway for their return to Australia for specialised medical treatment.

A third soldier was wounded as a consequence of the conduct of the operation. He was treated at the scene and made a full recovery.

The three soldiers have notified their families.

Australian Forces in Uruzgan province now operate from Multi-National Base - Tarin Kot. The Special Operations Task Group continues to conduct operations against the insurgency and the Advisory Task Force retains a combat-ready capability.

Media contact:

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999