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Constructing Camp Bastion
Before the main deployment of British troops to Helmand Province, the Royal Engineers constructed a central fortification to serve as a main base in Spring 2006. Camp Bastion was the largest construction project undertaken by the Corps of Royal Engineers since the Korean War. The engineering challenges included logistically complex supply chains from England, dust storms, temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit and the constant threat from militants.
Accommodation units; runways for both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft; a water supply network drawn from an aquifer 150m below ground; waste water treatment; fuel storage and power generation; a 2,000-man ‘super-kitchen’ and dining facility; and a headquarters complex and Joint Operations Centre were constructed. In addition, a field hospital; Ammunition Supply Point; camp security infrastructure; and 9 kilometres of roads were built.
62 Works Group Royal Engineers under Lt Colonel S P Boyd MBE planned and designed the construction works. 48 Field Squadron (Air Support) under Major R Hewson provided the main construction force, supported by locally employed civilians (LECs).
That a small team of multi-skilled military engineers could construct a small town with essential facilities including a hospital and international airport in just 4 months is a testament to skill, training, leadership, and initiative. The project was awarded the Judges’ Special Award at the British Construction Industry Awards 2007 with the following credit:
‘The most extraordinary feat of logistical, engineering, management and construction in the most inhospitable environment. The determination and commitment shown by the entire construction team included numerous examples of individuals going well beyond the call of duty. Camp Bastion was a construction project like no other and a worthy winner of the Judges’ Special Award.’
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Printed image size(s): B2 only (58 x 38 cm)
Owner: 39 Engineer Regiment
Price(s): £70
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