Afghan Female Tactical Platoon Trains for Operations

Photo By Martha Schaeffer | KABUL, Afghanistan (May 13, 2018) -- Female Tactical Platoon members complete a 50-yard bear crawl during a KPAT, or physical assessment test, near Kabul, Afghanistan, May 13, 2018. The KPAT is conducted twice a year to assess the women’s physical conditioning and includes a 3-mile run and a series of obstacles. The Female Tactical Platoon supports Afghan Special Security Forces during counterterrorism operations, specializing in the search, questioning and medical assistance of women and children. (Resolute Support photo by Martha Schaeffer, NATO Special Operations Component Command Public Affairs)  

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

05.23.2018

Story by Martha Schaeffer 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

Members of the Female Tactical Platoon, a small, elite unit of the Afghan Special Security Forces, undergo a physical assessment test called a Ktah Khas Physical Assessment Test (KPAT), near Kabul, Afghanistan, May 13.

The Ktah Khas Physical Assessment Test is conducted twice a year in full protective gear. The Female Tactical Platoon supports Afghan Special Security Forces during counterterrorism operations, specializing in the search, questioning and medical assistance of women and children.

"When I was little, I loved the Army and I wanted to join,” said a veteran Female Tactical Platoon member. "I want to help. I wanted to serve my country, and my people. I can do that through the FTP, and I can serve the females of Afghanistan also."

The Female Tactical Platoon operates in tandem with their male counterparts, assuming the same risks and dangers.

"Our purpose is to help our country, to support our family and our community of Afghanistan. People should have an open mind," said a young Female Tactical Platoon member. "Women can leave their family for work. We are equal and we have a right to serve our country."

• Date Taken: 05.23.2018
• Date Posted: 05.23.2018 13:09
• Story ID: 278109
• Location: KABUL, AF