Leslie Massey
Truck driving in Afghanistan is a dangerous job, with drivers facing threats from the Taliban and the risk of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on the roads. However, it can also be lucrative, with some sources indicating that it is possible to make six figures as a truck driver on US bases in the country. The US military contracts civilian drivers to carry out supply runs between bases, as well as to deliver construction equipment, air conditioners, and food to troops in violent areas. While there do not appear to be any current job openings for truck drivers in Afghanistan, it is clear that they are still needed and play a vital role in supporting military operations in the country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Truck drivers in Afghanistan | Dangerous, but lucrative |
| Truck driver jobs in Afghanistan | No open jobs found |
| Military truck drivers in Afghanistan | Face danger and put their lives on the line |
What You'll Learn
Trucking in Afghanistan is a dangerous job
The drivers of these trucks are often threatened with death for working with the U.S. military. Trucking companies have started adding armed escorts to their convoys, but this does not always keep them safe. The drivers also have to worry about IEDs blowing them off the road.
The drivers try to get as much sleep as possible because the days are long. They start very early, around 2:30 a.m., and drive in the darkness, alert for any sign of trouble. Before each run, the troop's platoon leader conducts a convoy mission brief to go over potential threats along the route.
Trucking is a lucrative business in Afghanistan, but it comes with a lot of risks. The drivers have to deal with graft, as they only see a fraction of the cash paid by the U.S. military, with the rest skimmed by middlemen or even going into the hands of insurgents for "protection". They also have to deal with frequent border closures on the Pakistan side, which adds to the security fragility.
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US soldiers and contractors drive trucks in Afghanistan
Driving trucks in Afghanistan is a dangerous job, with convoys of trucks becoming a target for the Taliban. Despite the risks, it can be a lucrative business, with drivers earning six-figure salaries.
US soldiers and contractors have been driving trucks in Afghanistan for many years, delivering essential supplies to Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). These include FOB Connolly and FOB Fenty, near Jalalabad.
US Army Specialist Garrett Bartlett, a former tractor-trailer driver for a milk company in New Mexico, has driven Army trucks for three years. During his deployment to Afghanistan, he drove a variety of vehicles, including Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) gun trucks and his personal favorite, the 20-ton load-handling system.
Bartlett was assigned to Troop D, 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, and was responsible for running combat logistical patrols between FOBs. The preparation time for the convoys and the long drives made for tiring and challenging days. Bartlett and his fellow drivers tried to get as much sleep as possible and stayed alert during the missions, following the credo, "Stay alert, stay alive."
The dangers faced by truck drivers in Afghanistan are not limited to those posed by the Taliban and other insurgent groups. Driving on Afghanistan's primitive roads and mountainous terrain can be treacherous, and IEDs are also a significant threat.
The US military has taken steps to protect its supply trucks, such as adding armed escorts to convoys and employing private security companies. However, there have been reports of the military paying the Taliban and other insurgent groups for safe passage, which has led to criticism and investigations.
The job of a truck driver in Afghanistan is demanding and perilous, but it plays a crucial role in supporting military operations and can be financially rewarding.
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Driving for the US military in Afghanistan is lucrative
Driving for the US military in Afghanistan can be a lucrative job, but it is also a dangerous one.
Shafi Noorzi, a former cook for NPR in Kabul, is one example of someone who has made a lucrative career out of driving for the US military in Afghanistan. Noorzi started his business with four trucks in 2004 and now has 70 trucks and 200 employees. His trucks carry construction equipment, air conditioners, and food for US troops in violent areas such as Kandahar. He has a contract with the US military worth big money, but it also means big risk. The convoys of 18-wheelers have become favourite targets of the Taliban, who might stop them, demand money, set the trucks on fire, or worse. Noorzi says he pays between $2,000 and $3,000 to recover the bodies of slain drivers from militants and has a contract with his drivers that their families will get $8,000 if they die on the job.
US Army Specialist Garrett Bartlett is another example of someone who has driven for the US military in Afghanistan. In an article on Army.com, Bartlett, a Texas native and former milk company tractor-trailer driver, said, "I enjoy trucking for the Army because it gives me the opportunity to play a role in assisting the bigger picture." During his deployment to Afghanistan, Bartlett drove various vehicles, including mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) gun trucks and a 20-ton load-handling system. He was assigned to run combat logistical patrols between Forward Operating Base Connolly and Fenty, about an hour away near the city of Jalalabad. Bartlett also noted that the drivers' credo is "Stay alert, stay alive."
While driving for the US military in Afghanistan can be lucrative, it is important to note that it is also a risky endeavour. The potential for high earnings comes with the possibility of facing danger and putting one's life on the line.
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Driving for the US Army in Afghanistan is rewarding
Driving for the US Army in Afghanistan can be a rewarding experience for those seeking an opportunity to serve their country and make a positive impact. Here are some reasons why driving for the US Army in Afghanistan can be rewarding:
- Sense of Purpose and Contribution: Army truck drivers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of military activities. By transporting vital supplies, equipment, and mail to Forward Operating Bases, drivers directly contribute to the well-being of soldiers and the success of their missions. This sense of contribution to a larger cause can be deeply fulfilling.
- Camaraderie and Brotherhood: Working as part of an army unit fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and brotherhood among soldiers. Army truck drivers get to share their experiences and build lasting bonds with their fellow soldiers, offering support and companionship during challenging times. This sense of belonging and teamwork can be a rewarding aspect of serving in the army.
- Personal Growth and Development: Army service, including truck driving, often pushes individuals beyond their comfort zones and exposes them to diverse experiences and challenges. Overcoming these challenges can foster resilience, adaptability, and a sense of accomplishment. Army drivers may also have the opportunity to learn new skills, enhance their driving abilities, and develop a strong work ethic.
- Exploring New Landscapes: Driving through the barren landscapes of Afghanistan offers a unique perspective on the country and its culture. Army drivers get to experience the local environment firsthand, including interactions with local nationals and navigating through both paved and unpaved roads. This exposure to a different part of the world can be enriching and provide memorable experiences.
- Financial Benefits: Driving for the US Army in Afghanistan can also offer financial stability and attractive compensation packages. While facing danger and long work hours, army drivers are often well-compensated for their service, with some reports suggesting six-figure earnings.
While driving for the US Army in Afghanistan comes with inherent risks and challenges, it can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for those seeking adventure, purpose, and the opportunity to serve their country.
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Driving in Afghanistan is very different from driving in the US
Road Infrastructure and Conditions
In Afghanistan, the road infrastructure is less developed compared to the US. While Afghanistan has one major transit road connecting major cities, many other roads are in poor condition or unpaved. In contrast, the US has an extensive network of well-maintained highways and roads.
Traffic Rules and Enforcement
Afghanistan lacks uniform traffic rules and enforcement. There are no traffic police, and most cars do not have license plates. The maximum speed limit in urban areas of Afghanistan is 50 km/h, whereas speed limits in the US vary by state but are generally higher. For example, California has a maximum speed limit of 65 mph (104 km/h) on rural freeways.
Driving Culture and Safety
Driving culture in Afghanistan differs significantly from the US. In Afghanistan, there are no standard traffic rules, and driving can be chaotic due to the presence of numerous pedestrians, bicyclists, and animals on the roads. In the US, driving culture is more regulated, with strict rules and enforcement, making it generally safer.
Security Concerns
Driving in Afghanistan comes with security concerns that are less prevalent in the US. Insurgents and roadside bombings pose significant risks to drivers in Afghanistan, especially those working with the US military. While the US also has security concerns, they are generally less extreme and targeted at the military.
Driving on the Right Side
Afghanistan drives on the right side of the road, similar to the US. However, this may be a new adjustment for Americans accustomed to driving on the right side in their home country.
Vehicle Requirements and Regulations
Afghanistan and the US have different vehicle requirements and regulations. In Afghanistan, vehicles are required to have number plates and cannot exceed certain dimensions and weight limits. The US also has regulations, including mandatory safety features and emissions standards, which differ from those in Afghanistan.
Drinking and Driving
Both Afghanistan and the US prohibit drinking and driving, but the legal blood alcohol level in Afghanistan is 0.0%, whereas most states in the US have a limit of 0.08%.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, truck driving in Afghanistan is considered dangerous due to poor road conditions, careless drivers, and the constant threat of IEDs and attacks from insurgents like the Taliban.
There are reports of truck drivers in Afghanistan earning six-figure salaries, especially those working as contractors on U.S. military bases or for private companies like Fluor and KBR. However, it's important to note that these salaries may not be easily verifiable, and the work is extremely dangerous.
Truck drivers in Afghanistan are often involved in transporting supplies, equipment, and mail to military bases and operating between different bases. They may also be tasked with picking up and delivering specific goods like construction equipment, air conditioners, food, and other materials.
The working conditions for truck drivers in Afghanistan can be challenging due to the unpredictable security situation and the presence of insurgent groups. Drivers often work long hours, including early morning or late-night shifts, and have to be constantly vigilant to stay safe.
As of May 2024, a job search for truck driver positions in Afghanistan on Glassdoor yielded no open positions. However, it's worth noting that the job market may fluctuate, and there may be other sources or direct applications to consider for those seeking employment in this field.
