Britain is at war: RAF Tornados are in the air over Iraq with orders to strike ISIS - and SAS are on the ground to guide in the bombs

[superbeets]

[h=3]More Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 30, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct 12 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Separately, officials said, U.S. and partner-nation military forces conducted two airstrikes in Iraq yesterday and today, using attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
In Syria, 10 airstrikes near Kobani struck two small ISIL units and destroyed seven ISIL fighting positions and five ISIL-occupied buildings. Additionally, an ISIL headquarters building was damaged near Dayr Az Zawr, and an ISIL security building was damaged near Raqqah.
In Iraq, an airstrike near Bayji struck a small ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle, and an airstrike west of Ramadi struck an ISIL checkpoint.
All aircraft left the strike areas safely, Centcom officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group’s ability to project power and conduct operations, officials said.
Among the coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq are the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Bahrain.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 31, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today, using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct four airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Separately, officials said, U.S. and partner-nation military forces conducted four airstrikes in Iraq yesterday and today, using fighter and remotely piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
In Syria, four airstrikes near Kobani damaged four ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL building. In Iraq, airstrikes near Fallujah and Bayji struck small ISIL units. An airstrike near Qaim destroyed an ISIL checkpoint and an ISIL vehicle, and an airstrike north of Tikrit struck a large ISIL unit and destroyed three ISIL-occupied buildings.
All aircraft left the strike areas safely, Centcom officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.
The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group’s ability to project power and conduct operations, officials said.
Among the coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq are the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Bahrain.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Strikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]Compiled from U.S. Central Command News Releases
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 3, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, and U.S. Central Command officials have provided details of airstrikes conducted from Oct. 31 through today.
In Syria:
-- Four airstrikes near Kobani struck an ISIL fighting position, a small ISIL unit and destroyed two buildings.
-- An airstrike near Dayr Az Zawr damaged an ISIL building. Ten airstrikes near Kobani struck five small ISIL units, destroyed three ISIL vehicles, suppressed or destroyed nine ISIL fighting positions and struck one ISIL building.
-- Southeast of Dayr Az Zawr, two airstrikes destroyed an ISIL tank and two vehicle shelters.
In Iraq:
-- Two airstrikes near Bayji struck an ISIL fighting position, a small ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Fallujah, four airstrikes struck a large ISIL unit and destroyed five ISIL bulldozers and an ISIL dump truck involved in creating obstructions and berms.
-- Three airstrikes near Rutbah damaged an ISIL vehicle and destroyed four ISIL vehicles.
-- An airstrike near Bayji struck a small ISIL unit.
-- Southeast of Fallujah, coalition aircraft struck a small ISIL unit.
-- An airstrike southwest of the Mosul Dam destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- Four airstrikes near Qaim, heavily damaged or destroyed four ISIL vehicles and struck four ISIL buildings.
All aircraft left the strike areas safely, officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, Centcom officials said.
Among the coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq are the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Bahrain.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 5, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria Nov. 3 through today, using attack and fighter aircraft to conduct four airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Separately, officials said, U.S. and partner-nation military forces conducted 10 airstrikes in Iraq over that period using fighter, attack and remotely-piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
Airstrike Details
In Syria, three airstrikes near Kobani struck a small ISIL unit, two ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL dump truck used in construction of fighting positions. An airstrike north of Sinjar destroyed an ISIL fighting position used to launch mortar attacks and struck a small ISIL unit manning the position, and two additional strikes north of Sinjar struck a small ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL armored vehicle.
In Iraq, an airstrike near Mosul destroyed ISIL-occupied buildings, including one housing a generator used for oil production and another used to manufacture explosive devices. Three airstrikes near Bayji struck two small ISIL units, destroyed an ISIL vehicle, an ISIL-occupied bunker and an ISIL anti-aircraft artillery piece.
Also in Iraq, an airstrike near Fallujah struck a small ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL vehicle. Three airstrikes near Ramadi damaged an ISIL vehicle and destroyed an ISIL checkpoint.
All aircraft left the strike areas safely, officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, Centcom officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes in Syria Target Khorasan Group Terrorist Network[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 6, 2014 – U.S. military forces conducted airstrikes last night against five Khorasan Group targets near Sarmada, Syria, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
The strikes involved U.S. bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft, officials said, all of which left the strike areas safely.
Though Centcom is still assessing the outcome of the attack, officials said, initial indications are that it had the intended results, striking terrorists and destroying or severely damaging several vehicles, as well as buildings assessed to be meeting and staging areas or bomb-making and training facilities.
Network of Nusrah Front and al-Qaida Core Extremists
Khorasan Group is a term used to refer to a network of Nusrah Front and al-Qaida core extremists who share a history of training operatives, facilitating fighters and money, and planning attacks against U.S. and Western targets, Centcom officials explained. The strikes were not in response to the Nusrah Front's clashes with the Syrian moderate opposition, they added, and did not target the Nusrah Front as a whole.
Rather, officials said, they were directed at the Khorasan Group, which is taking advantage of the Syrian conflict to advance attacks against Western interests and whose focus is not on overthrowing the Assad regime or helping the Syrian people.
The al-Qaida-affiliated network was plotting to attack in Europe or the U.S. homeland, Centcom officials said, describing the airstrikes as “decisive action to protect our interests and remove their capability to act.”
Centcom will continue to take any action necessary to disrupt attack plotting against U.S. interests, officials added.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 7, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq over the last three days, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft have conducted eight airstrikes in Syria since Nov. 5, officials said. Seven strikes near Kobani struck three small ISIL units, seven ISIL fighting positions and destroyed an ISIL artillery piece, and an airstrike near Tall Abyad destroyed an ISIL weapons stockpile.
Meanwhile, fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft have conducted six airstrikes in Iraq since Nov. 5. A strike near Fallujah destroyed two ISIL bulldozers that were building obstructions. An airstrike near Bayji struck a small ISIL unit and damaged an ISIL building.
Also in Iraq, two airstrikes near Ramadi destroyed an ISIL vehicle, a strike southeast of Fallujah struck a small ISIL unit and destroyed two ISIL vehicles, and a strike northwest of Haditha destroyed four ISIL vehicles.
Operation Inherent Resolve
All aircraft left the strike areas safely, officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.
The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, Centcom officials said. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 10, 2014 – U.S and partner nation military forces continued to attack ISIL terrorists in Syria Nov. 7-10 using bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct 23 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Separately, U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted 18 airstrikes in Iraq Nov. 7-10 using attack, bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists, officials said.
Anti-ISIL Attacks in Syria
In Syria, 13 airstrikes conducted near Kobani struck an ISIL vehicle and five small ISIL units, and destroyed an ISIL-occupied building used as an ammunition stockpile. Also destroyed were an ISIL command and control building and seven ISIL fighting positions, while two ISIL fighting positions were damaged. Eight airstrikes southeast of Dayr Az Zawr damaged several structures of an ISIL oil collection facility which was used to trans-load oil for the black market. Two airstrikes east of Dayr Az Zawr damaged an ISIL oil collection point.
Anti-ISIL Attacks in Iraq
In Iraq, seven airstrikes near Bayji struck three small ISIL units and destroyed an ISIL sniper position and two ISIL vehicles, one of which was used for construction. Three airstrikes in Fallujah struck two small ISIL units and ISIL fighters who were emplacing an improvised explosive device on a road, as well as destroying an ISIL vehicle mounted with an anti-aircraft gun.
Three airstrikes near Mosul struck a small ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL armed truck and a vehicle convoy consisting of 10 ISIL armed trucks. Two airstrikes near Al Qaim destroyed an ISIL armored vehicle and two ISIL checkpoints. An airstrike 32 miles southwest of Haditha destroyed two ISIL Humvees. An airstrike near Ramadi struck a small ISIL unit. An airstrike in Ar Rutbah destroyed an ISIL checkpoint.
All aircraft departed the strike areas safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Iraqi Pilots to Train on Iraqi-purchased F-16s in Arizona[/h]By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2014 – The initial group of F-16 fighter jets purchased by Iraq will be delivered to Tucson, Arizona, for Iraqi pilot training due to the security situation in Balad in Iraq, Defense Department spokesman Army Col. Steven Warren said here today.
Speaking to Pentagon reporters, the colonel discussed plans to send the aircraft to Arizona rather than Balad, where earlier this year delivery was originally planned.
“We had talked earlier in the summer about F-16s that the Iraqis had purchased,” Warren said. “They were due to go to Balad Air Base.”
The security situation still does not allow that, he said, so the initial group of F-16s will now be delivered to Tucson where there are Iraqi pilots currently in a training pipeline.
Security in Balad previously impacted the delivery of the aircraft when advances by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant militants triggered the evacuation from the air base of contractors who were part of the transfer process.
Iraqis Will Train With Their Own Aircraft
Following delivery of the fighters, Warren said, the Iraqi pilots in flight school in Arizona will begin to train on their own aircraft.
“We are going to deliver three F-16s to Tucson in December,” he said. “And then one per month after that through May for a total of eight F-16s.”
“We expect the Iraqi pilots will begin flying their own aircraft for continuation training beginning in January,” Warren said. “All maintenance for the F-16s will be provided by [contracted] logistic support.”
Warren said the Iraqi pilots have been using training aircraft -- not their own purchased aircraft -- for this training program.
“So they’re continuing their training,” he said, “but instead of training using U.S. training aircraft they will now use their own aircraft in Tucson.”

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 12, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria Nov. 10 to 12 using bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct 16 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Separately, U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted seven airstrikes in Iraq Nov. 10-12 using attack, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists, officials said.
In Syria, 10 airstrikes conducted near Kobani struck eight small ISIL units, damaged three ISIL fighting positions and destroyed an ISIL logistics facility. There were two airstrikes south of Al-Haskah damaging a crude oil collection point operated by ISIL. Three airstrikes northeast of Dayr Az Zawr damaged an ISIL crude oil collection facility. Near Dayr Az Zawr, one airstrike struck a small ISIL unit and damaged an ISIL vehicle.
In Iraq, two airstrikes near Kirkuk struck a small ISIL unit and a large ISIL unit. Five airstrikes near Bayji struck three small ISIL units, one large ISIL unit and destroyed two ISIL buildings, an ISIL sniper position, two ISIL vehicles, an ISIL mortar tube and an ISIL artillery piece. All aircraft departed the strike areas safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.
The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Hagel: ISIL Degraded But Remains Dangerous[/h]By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jake Richmond
DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2014 – United States and coalition forces have made progress in recent months against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, but the campaign will be “a long and difficult struggle,” Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told Congress here today.
“We are three months into a multi-year effort,” Hagel said in testimony before the House Armed Services Committee. In some parts of Iraq, ISIL’s advance has been stalled and even reversed by Iraqi, Kurdish and tribal forces supported by U.S. and coalition air strikes. But ISIL still represents a “serious threat” to American interests, Hagel said.
The secretary stressed the importance of sustaining the regional and global coalition, which includes 16 more countries since Hagel’s last congressional testimony in September. More than 60 nations are now contributing to the fight against ISIL, Hagel said, with assistance ranging from air support to training to humanitarian aid.
“Coalition partners have carried out 130 airstrikes against ISIL in both Iraq and Syria,” Hagel said. “Coalition nations have also pledged hundreds of personnel to support our mission to train, advise, assist, and help build the capacity of Iraqi forces.”
Methods and Results
The comprehensive strategy to stop ISIL also focuses on supporting inclusive governance, undercutting ISIL’s flow of resources, countering ISIL’s messaging, and constricting the flow of foreign fighters, Hagel said.
The combined effort has yielded results in degrading and destroying elements of ISIL’s warfighting capacity and denying safe haven to its combatants. The secretary said that ISIL fighters have been forced to maneuver in smaller groups, hide their large equipment, and change their communication methods.
“Sustaining this pressure on ISIL will help provide time and space for Iraq to reconstitute its forces and continue going on the offense,” Hagel explained. “And as Iraqi forces build strength, the tempo and intensity of our coalition’s air campaign will accelerate in tandem.”
Governmental Factors
However, ISIL “will not be defeated through military force alone,” Hagel said. In Iraq, he said, “much more needs to be done to achieve political reform.” And in Syria, since there is no partner government to work with, Hagel said, military strategy will demand time, patience and perseverance to deliver results.
“The position of the United States remains that [Syrian President Bashar] Assad has lost the legitimacy to govern,” Hagel said. The U.S. and coalition goal, he explained, is to ultimately create conditions for a political settlement in Syria.
“We are still at the front end of our campaign against ISIL,” Hagel told the House panel. “Congressional support -- your support -- is vital for this campaign to succeed.”

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Military Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 14, 2014 – U.S and partner nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria Nov. 12 to 14 using bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft to conduct 19 airstrikes against ISIL, U.S. Central Command officials reported, and one U.S. airstrike against a network of veteran al-Qaida operatives, sometimes called the “Khorasan Group.”
Separately, U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted 16 airstrikes in Iraq Nov. 12 to14 using attack, bomber, fighter, and remotely piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
In Syria, 17 airstrikes conducted near Kobani struck 10 ISIL units, destroyed 10 fighting positions, an ISIL building, two ISIL vehicles, and an ISIL motorcycle. An airstrike east of Ar Raqqah destroyed an ISIL training camp. Another airstrike east of Dayr Az Zawr destroyed an ISIL oil collection point. Finally, in northwest Syria west of Aleppo, a U.S. airstrike struck terrorists associated with a network of veteran al-Qaida operatives, sometimes called the “Khorasan Group,” who are plotting external attacks against the United States and our allies.
In Iraq, airstrikes south of Kirkuk struck four small ISIL units and an ISIL vehicle. Two airstrikes west of Kirkuk struck two small ISIL units, destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun, an ISIL weapons bunker, and an ISIL vehicle. One airstrike west of Taji destroyed three ISIL vehicles. Two airstrikes near Ar Rutbah destroyed 13 ISIL vehicles and two ISIL excavators. Three airstrikes near Bayji struck two small ISIL units and destroyed one ISIL vehicle. An airstrike near Fallujah struck a large ISIL unit. Finally, one airstrike east of Mosul, Iraq, destroyed one small ISIL unit.
All aircraft returned to base safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes against ISIL were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.
The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Centcom Officials Provide Inherent Resolve Airstrike Details[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 17, 2014 – U.S. Central Command officials today provided details of airstrikes that have targeted Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq in recent days.
Strikes in Syria
U.S. fighter and bomber aircraft have conducted 11 airstrikes in Syria since Nov. 14, officials said:
-- Nine airstrikes near Kobani destroyed seven ISIL fighting positions, suppressed another ISIL fighting position, destroyed four ISIL staging areas, and struck one tactical ISIL unit.
-- Two airstrikes near Dayr Az Zawr struck an ISIL crude oil collection facility and destroyed an ISIL tank.
Strikes in Iraq
Meanwhile, U.S. and partner-nation military forces have conducted 20 airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq since Nov. 14 using attack, bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft:
-- Four airstrikes near Rutbah destroyed nine ISIL trucks, two ISIL excavators and an ISIL front-loader, and damaged an ISIL vehicle.
-- Three airstrikes near Fallujah destroyed two ISIL vehicles, an ISIL bulldozer and an ISIL front-loader.
-- An airstrike southwest of Mosul Dam destroyed an ISIL bulldozer and struck a tactical ISIL unit.
-- Two airstrikes west of Mosul struck two ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL fighting position.
-- Three airstrikes near Kirkuk struck a tactical ISIL unit and damaged an ISIL tank and destroyed another.
-- An airstrike southwest of Qaim destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
-- An airstrike in Tal Afar struck a tactical ISIL unit.
-- Five airstrikes near Bayji struck two tactical ISIL units and a large ISIL unit and destroyed an ISIL tank, an ISIL vehicle and four ISIL fighting positions.
All aircraft returned to base safely, Centcom officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
Part of Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 19, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq over the last three days, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Strikes in Syria
In Syria, fighter and bomber aircraft conducted six airstrikes against ISIL, and one U.S. airstrike targeted a network of veteran al-Qaida operatives known as the Khorasan Group, officials said.
Five airstrikes near Kobani destroyed an ISIL fighting position, an ISIL staging area and three ISIL-occupied buildings, and also suppressed two ISIL fighting positions and struck two tactical units and a large ISIL unit.
An airstrike southeast of Hasakah damaged a crude oil collection point operated by ISIL. In northwestern Syria near Haram, a U.S. airstrike struck and destroyed a storage facility associated with the Khorasan Group, whose members are plotting attacks against the United States and its allies, Centcom officials said.
Strikes in Iraq
Separately, U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted 24 airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq over the last three days, using attack, fighter, bomber and remotely piloted aircraft.
Thirteen airstrikes near Kirkuk destroyed two ISIL fighting positions, seven ISIL staging areas, an ISIL mortar position, and an ISIL bulldozer and front-loader. Seven airstrikes near Mosul struck five ISIL tactical units, damaged a roadside-bomb factory, and destroyed an ISIL mortar position, three ISIL vehicles, an ISIL occupied building, an ISIL artillery piece and an ISIL artillery mover.
Three airstrikes near Bayji struck three ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL-occupied building and an ISIL vehicle. An airstrike near Fallujah struck an ISIL tactical unit.
All aircraft returned to base safely, Centcom officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
Part of Inherent Resolve
The strikes were conducted as part of Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Hagel Notes Progress Against ISIL as World Grows More Dangerous[/h]By Nick Simeone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2014 – The U.S.-led fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant is showing good signs of progress, and the first of 1,500 additional U.S. troops that President Barack Obama ordered to Iraq should begin arriving there in the next few weeks, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in a PBS interview broadcast last night.
“Overall, we are seeing good progress,” Hagel told Charlie Rose in a wide-ranging interview conducted at the Pentagon yesterday in describing the three months of airstrikes and Iraqi and Kurdish attacks against ISIL. “We’re not where we need to be yet, but this is a longer-term, difficult, challenging mission.”
Since June, ISIL has overrun cities and towns across a swath of territory spanning the Iraqi-Syrian border, and a coalition of nations is working to degrade, and ultimately destroy, the terrorist group.
“We’ve never seen an organization like ISIL that is so well organized, so well trained, so well-funded, so strategic, so brutal, so completely ruthless,” Hagel said.
No Ground Combat Role for U.S. Forces
The defense secretary said Obama’s decision earlier this month to double the number of U.S. troops in Iraq means additional trainers and advisors will begin arriving over the next few weeks. And while he said administration and military leaders are always reassessing the effectiveness of their strategy, he emphasized that despite the troop increase, American forces will not be returning to Iraq in a ground combat role.
“There will be and there is combat there in Syria and Iraq -- boots on the ground in Iraq,” he said. “But they’re not Americans fighting that war. We’re training, we’re advising, we’re equipping.”
Hagel was also asked about Russia’s intervention in Ukraine and what the United States and NATO are doing to counter Russian threats to the region, including whether Washington would expand U.S. military assistance to the Ukrainian government beyond nonlethal equipment and training.
“We’re reviewing every request right now on everything,” Hagel said, but he added that the conflict between the Ukrainian government and Russian-backed rebels in the east ultimately must be resolved through diplomatic means.
A Dangerous World
Overall, Hagel described a world growing increasingly dangerous and full of what he called “uncontrollables.” Coming up with policies that are relevant and effective is difficult under those conditions, he said, and becomes more difficult as additional sequestration spending cuts threaten the Pentagon budget.
If current trends continue, he said, “we will cut so deeply into readiness and to our ability to carry out our missions, and it will have a direct impact on every facet of our security.”

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria and Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq over the past several days, conducting seven airstrikes in Syria and 23 in Iraq.
Strikes in Syria
Fighter and bomber aircraft in Syria conducted six airstrikes near Kobani destroyed four ISIL staging areas, two ISIL-occupied buildings, two ISIL tactical units, and suppressed an ISIL fighting position. Near Ar Raqqah, an airstrike damaged an ISIL barrack.
Strikes in Iraq
U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted 23 airstrikes in Iraq using fighter, attack, bomber and remotely-piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
Six airstrikes near Bayji destroyed three ISIL buildings, a bunker, two ISIL transport vehicles, five ISIL tactical units, an ISIL checkpoint and damaged another ISIL building. Near Sinjar, four airstrikes destroyed two ISIL barracks, an ISIL bunker and storage facility, an ISIL guard post, at least eight ISIL armored vehicles and a truck in a vehicle storage yard, as well as two tactical ISIL units. West of Kirkuk, three airstrikes destroyed five bunkers, two ISIL vehicles and an ISIL tactical unit. Near al Asad, four airstrikes destroyed four ISIL vehicles, an ISIL building, and struck three ISIL tactical units. Near Mosul, three airstrikes destroyed an ISIL guard post, an ISIL vehicle and two ISIL tactical units. Near Ramadi, two airstrikes destroyed an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL tactical unit, while also damaging an ISIL armored vehicle and an ISIL-occupied building. Finally, in Tal Afar, an airstrike damaged an ISIL-occupied airfield.
All aircraft returned to base safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition Nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Continue in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 24, 2014 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq over the last three days, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Airstrikes in Syria
Fighter and bomber aircraft have conducted nine airstrikes in Syria since Nov. 21, officials said:
-- Seven airstrikes near Kobani destroyed three ISIL fighting positions and two ISIL staging areas, damaged another ISIL staging area and suppressed four ISIL fighting positions.
-- Near Raqqah, two airstrikes struck an ISIL headquarters building.
Airstrikes in Iraq
In Iraq, fighter, attack, bomber and remotely-piloted aircraft have conducted 15 airstrikes since Nov. 21, officials said:
-- Five airstrikes near Mosul destroyed an ISIL checkpoint, three ISIL Humvees, a large ISIL unit, two tactical ISIL units and a heavy weapon.
-- Near Asad, two airstrikes destroyed a mortar position, an ISIL artillery piece, an ISIL vehicle and a tactical ISIL unit and damaged an ISIL-occupied building and an ISIL vehicle.
-- Near Baghdad, two airstrikes destroyed an ISIL-occupied building, three ISIL vehicles, an ISIL Humvee and two tactical ISIL units, one of which was emplacing roadside bombs.
-- Near Ramadi, two airstrikes destroyed two ISIL vehicles.
-- Near Tal Afar, two airstrikes suppressed a mortar position.
-- An airstrike struck an ISIL obstruction near Fallujah Dam.
-- Near Hit, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle.
All aircraft returned to base safely, Centcom officials said, noting that airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.
The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations, Centcom officials said.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 26, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria yesterday and today using bomber and fighter aircraft to conduct 10 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported.
Separately, U.S. and partner nation military forces conducted seven airstrikes in Iraq yesterday and today using attack, fighter and remotely-piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists, officials said.
Airstrikes in Syria
In Syria, 10 airstrikes near Kobani struck an ISIL fighting position, a large ISIL unit, two tactical ISIL units, and destroyed four ISIL staging areas and six ISIL fighting positions.
Airstrikes in Iraq
In Iraq, two airstrikes near Mosul destroyed an ISIL bulldozer, two ISIL vehicles, three ISIL-occupied buildings and an ISIL fighting position, and also struck a large ISIL unit. Near Kirkuk, two airstrikes destroyed an ISIL tank, an ISIL Humvee and another ISIL vehicle, and also struck two ISIL units. North of Sinjar, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL Humvee and an ISIL vehicle. Northwest of Ramadi, an airstrike damaged an ISIL checkpoint.
And, west of Bayji, an airstrike destroyed one ISIL vehicle and damaged another.
All aircraft returned to base safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 1, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria using fighter, bomber and remotely-piloted aircraft to conduct 27 airstrikes Nov. 28 through today, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Separately, officials said, U.S. and partner-nation military forces conducted 28 airstrikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq Nov. 28 through today using attack, fighter, and remotely-piloted aircraft.
Airstrikes in Syria
In Syria, 17 airstrikes near Kobani destroyed two ISIL-occupied buildings, three ISIL tanks, three ISIL fighting positions, an ISIL armored personnel carrier, three ISIL vehicles and two ISIL staging areas, and also struck seven tactical ISIL units. The airstrikes also targeted six ISIL fighting positions and damaged an ISIL-occupied building. Near Ar Raqqah, nine airstrikes struck an ISIL electronic warfare garrison, an ISIL military garrison, an ISIL headquarters, an ISIL jamming system, an ISIL tank and 14 ISIL vehicles. Near Aleppo, a U.S. airstrike struck a target associated with a network of veteran al Qaida operatives, sometimes called the "Khorasan Group."
Airstrikes in Iraq
In Iraq, 13 airstrikes near Mosul destroyed four tactical ISIL units, two large ISIL units, two fighting positions, three armored vehicles, seven vehicles, two ISIL trucks and a bulldozer. Additionally, these airstrikes destroyed heavy weapons to include two heavy machine guns, a mortar position and an anti-aircraft artillery emplacement as well as an ISIL-occupied building and a tunnel entrance. Near Sinjar, an airstrike destroyed two ISIL-occupied buildings.
Near Tal Afar, five airstrikes destroyed 19 ISIL vehicles, two ISIL bunkers, an ISIL compound and struck a tactical ISIL unit. Near Hit, three airstrikes destroyed an ISIL checkpoint, an ISIL bunker, and an excavator and struck a tactical ISIL unit and also damaged another ISIL checkpoint. Near Tal Talab, two airstrikes destroyed three ISIL fighting positions and struck a tactical ISIL unit. Near Tirkrit, two airstrikes destroyed three ISIL vehicles and struck two large ISIL units. Near Kirkuk, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle. Near Ramadi, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle and struck a tactical ISIL unit.
All aircraft returned to base safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project power and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

 

[superbeets]

[h=1]Iran bombs Islamic State targets in Iraq, says Pentagon[/h]Rear Adm Kirby's comments followed reports that American-made F4 Phantom jets from the Iranian air force had been targeting IS positions in the eastern Iraqi province of Diyala.
"We have indications that they did indeed fly air strikes with F-4 Phantoms in the past several days," he said.
It was up to Iraq to oversee and co-ordinate flights by different countries in its airspace, he added.
"We are flying missions over Iraq, we co-ordinate with the Iraqi government as we conduct those," he said. "It's up to the Iraqi government to deconflict that airspace."
"Nothing has changed about our policy of not co-ordinating military activity with the Iranians."

 

[superbeets]

[h=3]Airstrikes Hit ISIL in Syria, Iraq[/h]From a U.S. Central Command News Release
TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 3, 2014 – U.S. military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria Dec. 1 through today using fighter and bomber aircraft to conduct 14 airstrikes, U.S. Central Command officials reported today.
Separately, officials said, U.S. and partner-nation military forces conducted 11 airstrikes in Iraq Dec. 1 through today using fighter, attack, and remotely-piloted aircraft against ISIL terrorists.
Airstrikes in Syria
In Syria, 14 airstrikes near Kobani destroyed an ISIL vehicle, 17 ISIL fighting positions, and an ISIL staging area. Also, those airstrikes suppressed eight other fighting positions and struck a large ISIL unit.
Airstrikes in Iraq
In Iraq, four airstrikes near Mosul destroyed five ISIL bunkers, two ISIL-occupied buildings, an ISIL vehicle, an ISIL fighting position and two heavy weapons. In addition, those airstrikes also struck a large ISIL unit and a tactical ISIL unit. Near Ramadi, two airstrikes destroyed four ISIL vehicles. Near Tal Afar, an airstrike destroyed an excavator and struck a tactical ISIL unit.
Near Sinjar, an airstrike destroyed four ISIL-occupied buildings and two ISIL tractor trailers. Near Hit, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL vehicle. Near al Qaim, an airstrike destroyed four ISIL vehicles. Near Fallujah, an airstrike destroyed 12 ISIL vehicles, two ISIL weapon facilities and struck a tactical ISIL unit.
All aircraft returned to base safely. Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports.
The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, the region and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations.
Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the U.S., Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.