Ten: 1987

Abstract

Shortly before the end of 1986 Abdol Rasool, the government’s most important militia commander in the northern province of Fariab joined the resistance. He had brought large amounts of supplies including thousands of small arms and tons of food with him.¹ This action resulted in a deterioration of security and prompted an offensive early in 1987. Afghan government troops of the 37th Commando Brigade, 18th Division, various Sarandoy and militia units were brought together for the operation. A Soviet element of one or two battalions brought the force to an estimated 6000.²