The camera loves the light, and in Iraq there’s plenty of sunshine. Today we look at a Danish soldier, scanning his sector of fire during a base defense exercise supporting Operation Task Force Dragon at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq.

He’s using a Colt from Canada and the optics is an ELCAN. You can see “CANADA” clearly on the original picture, just underneath the scope mount. The rifle is a rebuilt 1995 vintage lower with a new IUR upper with STANAG 4694 rail. It has a free-floating 15.7-inch barrel with a C8 profile (which is slightly larger than M16/M4). Elcan has been the standard scope since 1995 – with the three generations. Pictured is a GEN 2 version (with upgraded mount).

In Denmark they are using the following rifles: 

556 rifle M/95 (Diemaco C7A1)

556 Carbine M/96 (Diemaco C8A2)

556 Light support weapon M/04 (Diemaco LSW)

556 Special Forces Weapon (Colt Canada SFW)

556 CQB carbine (Colt Canada)

556 Rifle M/10 A2-A4 (Colt Canada C8IUR)

This event took place just after the New Year, January 2020.

Danish soldiers mobilize their quick reaction force during a base defense exercise supporting Task Force Dragon at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 2, 2020. This multinational training event was held to improve readiness with partnered nations. The Coalition remains united and determined in its mission to degrade and defeat Daesh. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Derek Mustard)

A Danish soldier scans his sector of fire during a base defense exercise supporting Task Force Dragon. This multinational training event was held to improve readiness with partnered nations.  (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Derek Mustard)

Two Estonian soldiers observe their sectors of fire. The Coalition remains united and determined in its mission to degrade and defeat Daesh. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Derek Mustard)

All photos are taken by U.S. Army Spc. Derek Mustard.