Helicopter shortage in overseas missions
By Jonathan Marcus
BBC diplomatic correspondent
One of the key shortages had been in the support area, notably helicopters.
Last month, French Defence Minister Herve Morin complained about the reluctance of other European governments to come up with the necessary resources.
France, because of its long-standing military ties in the region, had wanted to restrict its contribution to the 3,500-strong force, which is to be commanded by an Irish general.
With few other offers coming in, the French have now decided to deploy around 10 transport helicopters and the necessary support elements themselves - though they still hope that other countries may contribute additional equipment.
This episode underlines a growing problem in expeditionary operations, whether they be coalition forces engaged in explicit military tasks, like in Afghanistan, or in peacekeeping duties for the United Nations or other international bodies.
Full story
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7183336.stm
By Jonathan Marcus
BBC diplomatic correspondent
The stalled deployment of a European military force to eastern Chad now looks as though it will go ahead at the start of February after the French government agreed to pitch in with additional resources.
One of the key shortages had been in the support area, notably helicopters.
Last month, French Defence Minister Herve Morin complained about the reluctance of other European governments to come up with the necessary resources.
France, because of its long-standing military ties in the region, had wanted to restrict its contribution to the 3,500-strong force, which is to be commanded by an Irish general.
With few other offers coming in, the French have now decided to deploy around 10 transport helicopters and the necessary support elements themselves - though they still hope that other countries may contribute additional equipment.
This episode underlines a growing problem in expeditionary operations, whether they be coalition forces engaged in explicit military tasks, like in Afghanistan, or in peacekeeping duties for the United Nations or other international bodies.
Full story
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7183336.stm
