U.S. combat adviser mission in Iraq expands to battalion level
U.S. combat adviser mission in Iraq expands to battalion level
Andrew Tilghman, Military Times 4:34 p.m. EDT July 27, 2016
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Garver said the bridge is a big step in preparing to attack the ISIS stronghold of Mosul by linking the Iraqi army’s main logistics hub in the Kurdish-controlled town of Makhmur to the forward-operating base and airfield at Qayyarah.
“Connecting Qayyarah West air base and Makhmur will greatly improve maneuverability and shorten lines of communication for the [Iraqi Security Forces] as they prepare for the eventual assault to liberate Mosul,” Garver said.
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There are about 4,100 U.S. troops authorized to deploy to Iraq. Top commanders say additional troops may be necessary for the final invasion of Mosul, which may begin later this year.
