An Australian C-17A Globemaster aircraft has landed at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after delivering military stores to Erbil, Northern Iraq.
The aircrew flew from Al Minhad Air Base over the weekend via Tirana, Albania where the aircraft was loaded.
The aircraft’s crew has confirmed that no shots were fired at the aircraft and that their mission was carried out without incident.
Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral David Johnston said further aid, stores and support flights may be planned to assist the people of northern Iraq, who remain under threat from extremist Islamic fighters.
“The aircrew and support staff at Joint Task Force 633 have done a great job to successfully coordinate this mission to assist the people of northern Iraq,” Vice Admiral Johnston said.
“The cargo, in this case ammunition, was first inspected and cleared by Iraqi officials onboard the aircraft in Baghdad before the aircraft landed in Erbil.
“Our contribution in Iraq will continue to be coordinated with the Iraqi government, regional countries and our international partners.”
The Australian mission is consistent with similar assistance being provided by the United States, Albania, Canada, Croatia, Denmark, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom.
Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Hercules and C-17A Globemaster aircraft remain available to assist with more tasks.
Media note:
Defence will release imagery of the mission when available.
Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
