Operation Buzzard (UK Led)

It was announced on 29 May 2002 that 45 Commando Group and local Afghan forces were undertaking a series of patrols in the Khowst region of south east Afghanistan, under Operation Buzzard.

The operation reflected the success that coalition forces had enjoyed in forcing Al Qaida and Taliban to abandon a large-scale presence in much of the region, allowing the Jacana Task Force to move to a sustained pattern of patrols through the area. During Buzzard, patrols had also taken the opportunity to conduct valuable humanitarian aid work, including a wide-ranging programme of medical assistance in rural areas.

Operation Buzzard concluded successfully on 9 July 2002.