The 280th Infantry Battalion, Focsani received today from the 20th Infantry Battalion Black Scorpions the mandate of participation in Antica Babilonia operation, Iraq. The documents of transfer of authority over the Romanian Battalion were signed in the Romanian camp in Mittica Camp by Brigade General Nicolae Roman, chief of staff of the 2nd Joint Operational Headquarter and Brigade General Roberto Ranucci, commander of Ariete Brigade to whom the Romanians are subordinating.

The transfer of authority was preceded by the transfer of Romanians responsibility in the area of operations in South of Dhi Qar region, between the commanders of the two Romanian Battalions, Lieutenant Colonel Nicolae Ioan and Lieutenant Colonel Stefan Balan.

Mihai Stuparu, ambassador of Romania in Baghdad, General Lieutenant Saad Al Heriba, Brigade commander of the 3rd Iraqi Army and American and British and Italian staff officers participated in this event.


General Ranucci congratulated the Black Scorpions and thanked them for the mission fulfilled and the excellent cooperation with the Italian soldiers. the 20th Infantry Battalion proved the professionalism and dedication for the missions and I think any commander would be proud having such soldiers in his subordination Ranucci stated and wished the soldiers from Focsani good luck in their missions in the theater of operations.

Commander of Brigade of the 3rd Iraqi Army stressed: We had a special cooperation with the Romanian soldiers and I admire not only their military training but also their closeness to the Iraqi people.

MoND Press Office