British troops training Iraqi soldiers will guard Iraq HQ as ISIS crumbles
Members of 2 Rifles have been given a new mission to go beyond the perimeter to free up coalition soldiers currently doing the job
BRITISH troops training Iraq’s forces in a huge base are to be deployed “outside the wire” for the first time as IS crumbles.
They will take over guard duties beyond the perimeter to free up coalition soldiers currently doing the job.
The mission is being given to members of 2 Rifles, who are among more than 600 UK military personnel sent out to get Iraqi counterparts fighting fit.
Last night sources stressed the enhanced role at the vast Al Asad Air Base 100 miles west of Baghdad did not mean British troops were being sent into combat. The soldiers would instead be tasked with deterring threats, after a coalition request to the UK.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said: “By training Iraq forces we are helping with the long-term stability of the country and our own security here at home.”
He insisted the fight against IS was not over but added: “As the nature of the coalition campaign changes, the role we play must adapt too.”
Eight extra medics are being sent out following another request from top brass.
A deployment of British engineers at the base will be extended by six months.
