The use of shipping containers as living quarters is generally a sign of transience. But at Camp Marmal near Mazar-e-Sharif, the main base in northern Afghanistan of Germany's forces, it seems to show permanence. The containers are heavily protected against rocket attacks by steel plates on the sides and by a thick layer of sand on top. Such armour suggests that nato troops will stay for some time. Indeed, nato commanders have this week been lobbying for reinforcements, which most countries are refusing to send.
展开▼
