Russia 1993 [2]

International Information

International Operation Name: Russia - 1993 [2]

International Mission Name: Russia - 1993 [2]

Mandating Organization: Government of Canada

Region Name: Europe

Location: Former Soviet Union; Russia

Mission Date: 4 August 1993 - 30 October 1993

Mandate: To deliver medical supplies to Russia.

Narrative: The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) had delivered medical supplies to Russia and other former Soviet nations in early 1992 and 1993. The Canadian Red Cross, in response to appeals from its Russian counterpart, understood the need still existed for further medical aid. The Canadian government authorized a donation of $4.8 million to buy specific medicines. These were designed to treat three major causes of illness and death in Russia: infectious, intestinal and respiratory diseases.

Planning for Op BOREAL III began in May 1993, soon after the completion of Op Boreal II. The operation order was issued on 4 August. For the new operation all of the medical supplies were loaded into shipping containers by military personnel at CFB Trenton, and then taken by sea to Sweden and then by road to the city of Turku, Finland. By 6 October the entire Canadian contingent was at Turku; operations began on the 8th. There was one flight a day for the next 22 days, flying into five Russian cities to which the Canadians had not flown in the previous Op Boreal missions. Over 280,000 kilograms of freight were moved, including medical supplies and winter clothing donated by the Finnish Red Cross. The final flight was conducted on 29 October, with all personnel returning to Canada on the 30th.