Army Deploys SFAB to Colombia

In a statement on their website, U.S. Southern Command said "The U.S. Army’s 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) will deploy an advisory team to Colombia June 1 to support U.S. enhanced counter-narcotics cooperation with Colombian security forces."Furthermore, they went on to say the "company-sized team" will offer "support to U.S.-Colombia diplomatic and development efforts by training, advising, and assisting host units with strengthening capabilities crucial to U.S.-Colombia enhanced counter-narcotics cooperation." Additionally, the US troops will work with local forces to target "priority" areas.However, upon arrival the team will do a mandatory 14-day quarantine. This is set in place to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus. The statement says there is no specified length to the deployment. It will last until "determined by U.S. and Colombia military leadership assessment."

Who are the SFAB?

In January 2018, the Army created the Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFAB). The intent was to have a specialized unit to conduct training and advising for Allied and partner nations. For example, we may need to bolster the readiness of an ally in a certain region. This may be along a border of a hostile nation to prevent incursion. Also, we may need to strengthen the local military to protect an American interest. This may be anything from an oil pipeline to a humanitarian effort.As a result, the team deployed would receive additional training for that mission set. SFAB frequently works with interpreters and cultural experts to enhance their effectiveness with partnered militaries.

War on drugs

The U.S. hopes this will continue to foster a strong relationship with Colombia. Thus, curb the flow of narcotics from the region. Experts agree, the flow of cocaine has risen sharply in 2019. The US contributes $400 million annually to combat the spread of the drug. Earlier this year, Secretary of State Pompeo met with Colombian President Ivan Duque. Mr. Pompeo stated the two countries are planning to cut cocaine production by 50 percent, aiming their goal for 2023.Would you want this assignment? Will it be like the show Narcos? Sound off in the comments below!