Singapore will send 192 military personnel on a two-month mission to help U.S.-led forces rebuild Iraq, the government said Monday.
Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean said the personnel, from the navy and armed forces, will accompany one Singapore Landing Ship Tank (LST) and a C-130 transport aircraft that will depart in the next couple of weeks.
"Singapore's contribution is part of the ongoing multinational effort to help rebuild Iraq, involving some 30 countries," AFP cited Teo as saying in a ceremony to announce the imminent deployment.
"This mission will see the deployment of the RSN's (Republic of Singapore Navy) Landing Ship Tank RSS Endurance and an RSAF (Republic of Singapore Armed Forces) C-130 detachment to provide logistics support to Iraq's rebuilding efforts."
The RSS Endurance LST will undertake logistical tasks, providing replenishments and supplies for other naval vessels operating in the Arabian Gulf, Teo said.
Manned by 161 onboard crew members, the LST will also be a platform for helicopter missions and maritime boarding missions by teams from other countries who are part of the U.S.-led effort to rebuild the war-torn country.
The C-130, with 31 crew, will be carrying out airlift, transportation and supply missions.
It will also assist occupation forces in carrying supplies and personnel, humanitarian material as well as conduct medical evacuation operations. (Albawaba.com)
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