Media Room: Defence Alert

ADF NEWS STORIES FROM AFGHANISTAN

WHAT:            Three news stories for broadcast/publication.

WHEN:            These stories are available for immediate use.

BACKGROUND: The ADF currently has 1550 troops serving in Afghanistan under Operation Slipper as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

We are alerting you to three stories describing the work the ADF troops are currently doing.

These stories can be found at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/stories.htm

1. SPECIAL FORCES MENTORING IN ORUZGAN BEARS FRUIT

The partnership between Afghan National Security Force and the Australian Special Operations Task Group has resulted in the graduation of the first class of Afghan policemen who will work alongside the Australian forces.

Imagery is available on the Defence website at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1012/index.htm

2. OPERATIONAL SUCCESS IN SOUTHERN AFGHANISTAN

Afghan and Australian Forces are currently conducting Operation Baz Panje in the Mirabad Valley in Southern Afghanistan creating stronger relationships between Afghan locals and the Afghan and coalition forces.

Imagery is available on the Defence website at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1009a/index.htm 

3. SPECIAL FORCES GROUNDWORK SETS CONDITIONS FOR STABILITY

Months of intense and carefully applied Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) and Australian Special Forces pressure on insurgent sanctuary areas in Oruzgan province have helped pave the way for a permanent Coalition and ANSF presence in the province’s Mirabad region 

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1007/index.htm

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664