Iraqi Security Force Training Becomes a Model for Afghanistan

“„

A team of U.S. advisors based in Afghanistan visited here in late July to capture best practices from their sister unit, Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq.

“„

“We came to see how MNSTC-I conducts business,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Michael Weisz, director of the security cooperation program in Afghanistan. “We can’t apply everything we have learned here because there are differences between Iraq and Afghanistan. But within bounds, there is a commonality that we can apply. We want to capitalize on every success and avoid every pitfall.”

“„

Weisz said the team studied how MNSTC-I works contracts that enable the Iraqis to obtain the equipment and training they need.

“„

“Contracting is a big player in moving forward,” Weisz continued. “It is key and essential to our ability to execute dollars. We need flexible, agile contractor support. MNSTC-I personnel have been showing us how this can be done.”