It was announced on 17 May 2002 that coalition forces, including elements of 45 Commando Group, had deployed under Operation Condor to support an Australian Special Air Service patrol engaged in combat with Al Qaida and Taliban forces in the mountains of Paktia province in south east Afghanistan. Condor concluded successfully on 22 May.

The operation, involving Afghan, Australian, US and UK ground and air forces was intended both to destroy the enemy forces in the area and eliminate any terrorist infrastructure which may be found. The Australian patrol engaged in a lengthy firefight with a group of enemy on 16 May, having come under fire from heavy machine-guns and rocket-propelled grenades, and called in air support; casualties were inflicted on the enemy. Additional ground forces including elements from 45 Commando Group were then deployed early on 17 May to reinforce the Australians. All four companies of 45 Commando Royal Marines, plus their supporting Royal Artillery battery had established themselves in the operating area by 18 May, flown forward by RAF and US Army helicopters. They then proceeded to sweep the area around the location of the terrorist attack, ensuring it was now clear of enemy presence. Munitions discovered during the sweep operations were disposed of safely.

Details of 45 Commando Group's composition

Photographs of Operation Condor (updated 22 May)

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