AFL Activates 1st Armored Reconnaissance Battalion

The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) on Thursday, May 21, 2025, activated the 1st Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and the Signal Unit.

The activation ceremony, according to a release, was held at the Barclay Training Center, Monrovia marking a significant milestone in the development of the nation’s military capabilities, and a commitment to operational readiness.

“The activation of these units is not just a mere expansion of the AFL. It is rather about strengthening the capabilities and operational readiness of the Army as we strive to fulfill our constitutional mandate. Then mandate to defend our nation, safeguard our people and contribute meaningfully to regional and global peace.”

According to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Jadoe, “the activation of the 1st Armored Reconnaissance Battalion of AFL, represents a new dimension in the Army operational doctrine.”

With the integration of armored capabilities, the said, “this battalion will provide reconnaissance both on ground and in the air by conducting surveillance, gathering critical intelligence and responding rapidly to emerging threats.”

“Equipped with armored vehicles and drones, our trained reconnaissance teams with modern tactics will serve as the eyes and ears of our ground and Coast Guard troops, thereby shaping the decision-making processes of the respective commanders.”

“Similarly, in modern warfare, reliable and secure communication is the backbone of all military operations,” the release added. According to Lt/Col. Jadoe, the new Signal Company will be tasked with providing command and control capabilities to support units with the required communication that will ensure that our forces remain connected, informed and coordinated at all times.

 The AFL’s release said, it will also play a critical role in providing cyber defense, information security and digital transformation within the Army.

“These two newly activated units and other units of the AFL symbolize the strengthening of the Army as a conventional force that is alert, robust and responsive.

“The establishment of these units is in alignment with the vision of modern, self-sufficient, service-oriented armed forces.

The AFL’s primary focus is to fulfil its constitutional mandate, serving the country and prioritizing the needs of the nation, as well as providing services above individual interest,” the release continued.

“The activation of these units,” the release said, “initiates  a clear reflection and projection of the Chief of Staff’s vision “to shape a well-trained military” and still in his mission “to develop a resilient force”, a force not only for defense, but also a force capable of  maintaining  peace and security both at home and abroad.

Dr. Augustine T. Larmin, Deputy Defense Minister for Administration, ably represented Minister, Geraldine J. George. A retired Brigadier General.

 Dr. Larmin, thanked the AFL for their performance in the United Nations’ Peace-Keeping Mission in Mali and encouraged the AFL to continue its professional military services both at home and abroad as a “Force for Good.”

The AFL Chief of Staff, Major General Davidson F. Forleh, said all units/ components of the AFL would be activated to reflect its operational readiness.

Armed Forces of Liberia

“A Force for Good”