An Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) patrol from the Security Detachment was fired on by anti-coalition force (ACF) personnel with rifles and machine guns while conducting a routine patrol in Baghdad yesterday evening. 

A number of rounds hit the ASLAVs, however there were no injuries to Australian personnel. The vehicles only sustained superficial damage and the patrol was able to continue with their tasking. 

The patrol, which included three ASLAVs and personnel from the Australian Security Detachment (SECDET), was fired on by approximately three ACF as they approached a road overpass. Australian personnel returned fire with machine guns and Steyr rifles as they moved through the incident location.   

There are no reports of ACF casualties or injuries to bystanders. The actions of the Australian patrol were appropriate and in accordance with their rules of engagement. 

Questions and Answers 

What time did the incident occur? 

Answer: The incident occurred at approximately 5.40 pm, Baghdad time. 

How many rounds were fired at the Australian vehicles? 

Answer: The exact number of small arms rounds that struck the Australian vehicles is yet to be confirmed, however there were multiple strikes. 

What damage did the ASLAVs sustain? 

Answer: A full damage assessment is yet to be completed, however the damage was superficial and did not disable any of the vehicle’s systems. 

How many rounds did the Australians fire? 

Answer: The SECDET patrol fired approximately 420 rounds. 

How many SECDET soldiers were on the patrol? 

Answer: We will not confirm exact numbers of personnel involved for operational security reasons. 

Were any Australian diplomats in the ASLAVs at the time of the incident? 

Answer: No. 

Will the soldiers continue with their jobs, or will they be rested after this incident? 

Answer: The SECDET soldiers are well trained to deal with incidents like this.  They will be debriefed on the incident, however will continue with routine tasking. 

Can you be sure that no civilians were injured or killed in this incident? 

Answer: The SECDET soldiers returned fire on the positions where the ACF were firing from.  The soldiers are well trained and ensure that the chance of co-lateral damage is minimised.  There have been no reports of injuries to civilians. 

Has there been an increase in attacks on Australian personnel since the US announced that they were increasing their troop numbers in Baghdad? 

Answer: Baghdad remains a dangerous and unpredictable place.  This is the first incident involving Australian personnel in Baghdad in recent weeks.