Fed: Aust to deploy 300 special force troops to Afghanistan =3

AAP General News (Australia)
04-10-2007
Fed: Aust to deploy 300 special force troops to Afghanistan =3

Mr HOWARD warned the substantial increase in troop numbers could mean Australian casualties.

He says he wants to make it clear all of the intelligence advice suggests there is
a heightened security risk .. and there is the distinct possibility of casualties.

Mr HOWARD says that should be understood and prepared for by the Australian people.

In addition to the special forces .. the existing 120-strong protection company group
will be extended.

Australia will also send a radar protection surveillance group of 75 personnel from
the RAAF .. to Kandahar airfield to assume control of a portion of Afghan international
airspace from the middle of this year.

Mr HOWARD says the forces in Afghanistan will be supported by additional logistics
and intelligence capabilities with our total deployment to Afghanistan peaking at one
thousand in the middle of next year.

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KEYWORD: AFGHAN AUST 3 CANBERRA

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