Battleland

Canine Commandos

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ISAF

A soldier and his dog, in Afghanistan.

We noted back in March that the SEALs were seeking outside trainers to mold the dogs that accompany them on their secret missions into lean, mean biting machines, and whatever else might be required.

Naval Special Warfare Group was coy about the details at the time, saying details of the training “will not be issued.” So Battleland filed a Freedom of Information Act request for it.

The Navy came through the other day with the contract’s statement of work. Some undoubtedly juicy bits were deleted, but this is the basic outline of what the contract involves:

Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Multi-Purpose Canine (MPC) requires experienced trainers to support and develop untrained canines and handlers into operationally ready assets…Trainers with significant capabilities and canine training background are required to provide robust training for new canines and handlers as both canines and handlers move through the training program…The Multi Purpose Canine (MPC) Program utilizes specially trained canines to conduct special operations in support of Theater Combatant missions…The contractor shall provide training to Government personnel, skilled canines, and be responsible for purchasing and supervising the selections of the dogs that would enter into the MPC Program.

While the trainers will have to visit war zones periodically, “these teams will not be armed and will not deploy as part of operational missions,” the contract description says. “NSW will make every effort to provide a safe and secure environment for contracted employees; however, NSW, the US Government or host countries will not be responsible for accidents or insurgency activities aimed at disrupting operations.”

Wonder if the Taliban have militant mutts?