The Crucial Role of the SPLM/SPLA Signals Unit in the Liberation Struggle of South Sudan
Lt. Gen. Gier Chuang Aluong, and Brig. Gen. Philip Chol Kander
By Chol Michael Maker, Juba, South Sudan
Saturday, 17 May 2025(PW) — The SPLA Signals Unit, also known as Signals and Electronic Warfare (CEW), was created under the overall command of the SPLA Deputy Chief of General Staff, Commander Salva Kiir Mayardit. By virtue of his seniority within the military hierarchy, he reported to Commander William Nyuon Bany, the then SPLA Chief of General Staff, who, in turn, reported to Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the SPLA Commander-in-Chief. This unit has long been overseen by Commander Gier Chuang Aluong, commonly referred to as Gee Cee, Iron (India November), or Wilson Gideon (Whiskey Golf). Historically, the enemy has viewed the Signals Unit with suspicion due to its pivotal role in intelligence gathering. Most intelligence operations were undertaken by the Signals Unit, which relayed information to the leadership, who then passed it on to military intelligence for verification and analysis before transmission to the infantry combat command. As a matter of military protocol, it is essential for infantry to acquire information regarding enemy manpower, weaponry, morale levels, terrain, and indeed the conduct of any combat preparations and operations prior to launching any attacks.
There has often been a tug-of-war between Military Intelligence and the Signals Unit, as both share the mission of collecting or intercepting the enemy’s signals and communications. Regardless of the specifics, these two units serve the paramount objective of providing vital strategic intelligence to the military command. This intelligence is particularly critical before the Combat Engineering Unit is tasked with placing anti-tank landmines and anti-personnel mines. Concurrently, the Artillery Unit is instructed to establish their artillery coordinates, whilst the Air Defence Unit is ordered to remain vigilant against surprise air raids targeting friendly positions by the enemy air force.
As the artillery unit engages and pins down enemy defensive forces, SPLA armoured vehicles (Mechanised) and tanks advance into enemy territory. Meanwhile, the Medical Corps prepares stretchers and other essential equipment to facilitate the evacuation of wounded troops from the battlefield to the nearest makeshift emergency location. In summary, the Signals Unit has been the backbone of the SPLA intelligence structure.
Long live Commander Gier Chuang Aluong, who founded and diligently served in this vital role for over a decade. The accompanying image features Lt. Gen. Gier Chuang Aluong, often referred to as GC, alongside Brig. Gen. Philip Chol Kander. Both were part of the headquarters of the SPLA Commander-in-Chief and Chairman of the SPLM. Lt. General Gier is currently a Member of Parliament, while Brigadier General Chol Kander serves on an external diplomatic mission in the region. General Gier has held several significant positions within the Republic of South Sudan, including Federal Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Minister of Interior, and Minister of Roads and Bridges. Gen. Gier, also known as Wilson Gideon predominantly in Equatoria, served as the SPLA sectoral commander in the areas of Maridi, Mundri, and others. Comrade Philip Chol, affectionately known by his colleagues as Papa Charlie, has served in various capacities in the SPLA as signals personnel.
Kudos to the SPLA Signalists (CQs) and their astute commander.
SPLA OYEE!
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