WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Canada has increased its contributions to the US-led Coalition against Daesh by creating an all-source intelligence center in Iraq and deploying additional helicopters and trainers, according to an announcement by Canadian Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan.
“As a part of Joint Task Force-Iraq, the CAF[Canadian Armed Forces] officially opened an all-source intelligence centre, responsible for collecting, synthesizing, and analyzing information derived from a variety of sources,” the announcement said.
Sajjan explained that the collected intelligence will be used for operational planning and force protection.
The increased contribution, announced on Thursday, also includes three CH-146 Griffon helicopters to boost tactical support and eventual deployment of 830 troops by late summer, according to the release.
"Canada’s expanded mission is setting the conditions for Iraqi security forces and regional partners to achieve long-term success by enabling them to effectively plan and execute military operations aimed at defeating ISIL [Daesh] and improving security and stability in the region," the minister stated.
Canada participated in the air campaign against Daesh that is conducted by a US-led coalition of 66 states since August 2014. However, in February, Ottawa ended the strikes and started providing aircraft for refueling and surveillance, as well as by training local military forces.
