The British Army Scottish Transport Regiment has hosted the Exercise Mudmaster military driving competition in Central Scotland.
Led by the 154 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, this year’s iteration was held on more than 100 miles (161 kilometers) of track from Edinburgh’s Redford Barracks to Glasgow.
Along the route, participants drove through complex terrain and off-road to demonstrate operating proficiency, navigation skills, and recovery.
Exercise Mudmaster was attended by over 200 service personnel. Separate challenges required them to operate various land vehicles, including MAN trucks, Land Rovers, and motorbikes.
Another mission included a team of three personnel per vehicle to work on teamwork and road safety awareness.
Among the participants was the Army Reserve Regiment, which operates the latest MAN Support Vehicles. The team supported NHS Scotland with ambulance and logistics drivers as part of the army’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Challenging Competition
The British Army started Exercise Mudmaster in 1991 in collaboration with off-road driving experts from the Scottish Land Rover Owners Club.
According to the army, the annual military driving event provides an opportunity for civilians “to pit their wits against some of the best drivers in the Army.”
“This challenging competition gives our soldiers the chance to prove their expertise under demanding conditions and against the best teams from a number of Off-Road Clubs from around the British Isles including from as far afield as England, Northern Ireland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland,” explained Maj. Donald Urquhart, Senior Planning Officer of 154 (Scottish) Regiment.
“Our Reservists relish the opportunity to perform to the highest standards as both soldiers and drivers.”
“This is particularly relevant as we currently support 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade and are soon to also support 4 Light Brigade Combat Team to deploy on operations anywhere in the world.”
