Security Detachment Iraq (Australia)

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The Australian Security Detachment Iraq (SECDET Iraq) Is a part of the Australian Army's contribution to Operation Iraqi Freedom. In Australia the Operation is known as Operation Catalyst

The Security Detachment (SECDET) is based on a Company group from one of Australia's Royal Australian Regiment Battalions- Currently the 6RAR from Galipolli Barracks in Enoggera, Brisbane- and includes a Troop of Cavalry or Light Horse from either the 2nd Cavalry Regiment or the 2nd/14th Light Horse (Queensland Mounted Infantry).

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Protection of Australia's Diplomatic interests in Baghdad;
• Vehicle Convoys; and
• any other duties as deemed necessary.

SECDET enjoys a certain amount of autonomy in its operations as it is considered a detached entity from the Joint Task Force.

SECDET IV had a VBIED detonate across the street from their HQ during their tour. Also a serious accident when an ASLAV rolled at high speed.

SECDET V was involved in a VBIED attack on the 25th October 2004, just short of the green zone checkpoint in Baghdad, the patrol suffered 4 WIA and serious damage to an ASLAV - 25.

SECDET V was also involved in two incidents in the northern city of Tall Afar on 8th and 10th December 2004, 3 Troop, A Squadron of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment was ambushed by insurgents using small arms and RPG's. A firefight between the two broke out resulting in KIA's and WIA's to the enemy and no injuries or damage to the Australian patrol.

SECDET VI had a VBIED detonate both on an ASLAV patrol on Route Irish and also on their HQ in Baghdad during their tour.

Private Jacob Kovco, Australia's only fatality of the Iraq conflict was a member of SECDET IX in 2006