POTD: Convoy Duty in the Mongolian Steppes
In today’s Photo Of The Day, U.S. Army Spc. Bernice Daiz, a military police officer with the 390th Military Police Battalion, keeps watch from a Mongolian Armed Forces ZIL-131 utility truck during a simulated U.N. convoy mission. The scenario took place in June 2025, as part of Exercise Khaan Quest at the Five Hills Training Area in Mongolia.
The exercise brings together troops from more than a dozen countries to train and exchange best practices for United Nations peacekeeping missions. Participants receive both peacekeeper training and certification to support future U.N. operations around the world.
U.S. Army personnel were issued small arms by the Mongolian Armed Forces to support the multinational training, which focuses on U.N. peacekeeping operations. Khaan Quest is an annual exercise aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and military readiness.
In Mongolia, the AKM is the standard issue weapon, but the Chinese Type 56-1 is said to be used for peacekeeping missions. Both are chambered in 7.62x39mm.
Image courtesy of U.S. Army / Staff Sgt. Tristan Moore
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
More by Eric B
![The NEW Matador Arms Roller-Delayed MAT-9 [GunCon 2025]](https://cdn-fastly.thefirearmblog.com/media/2025/07/04/04302/post.jpg?size=350x220)
Comments
Join the conversation
During the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries the Mongols controlled land from the Pacific to eastern Europe. Current Romania and Bulgaria were Mongol controlled and Poland was in their crosshairs.
I freaking can't stand seeing US Soldiers wearing Blue UN Helmet Covers.