Dutch F-16s used in first bombing missions over Syria

By Zack Newmark on February 16, 2016 - 17:42
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A pilot in a Dutch F-16 looks on during a training mission with U.S. and British forces. April 2015. (photo: Ministry of Defense). (A pilot in a Dutch F-16 looks on during a training mission with U.S. and British forces. April 2015. (photo: Ministry of Defense))

Dutch fighter jets were involved in ten different bombing missions against ISIS military targets last week, including locations in Syria. It is the first time the Netherlands permitted Dutch F-16s to join missions in Syria.

The country first approved sending fighter jets to take part in missions over Iraq in September 2014. Members of Parliament gave its consent to missions over Syria just last month after Labour MPs signaled they were now in favor of expanding the military action.

The missions last week targeted military installations, strategic regions and enemy fighting positions, the Defense Ministry announced on Tuesday. Dutch troops are also currently teaching Iraqi and Kurdish fighters commando and sharp shooting techniques in Baghdad.

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