Apache Choppers Used Against IS
The US military is flying Apache attack helicopters against Islamic State (IS) rebels in Iraq for the first time, exposing US troops to greater risk from ground fire as they help Iraqi forces battle the militants who have overrun parts of the country.
US troops flew helicopters against IS fighters last Sunday and again on Monday as they struck at mortar teams and other units near Fallujah, a spokesman for Central Command said.
“This was the first time rotary wing aircraft were used in co-ordination with, and in support of, ISF (Iraqi Security Force) operations,” Army Major Curtis Kellogg said.
“The Iraqi government asked for support with this capability near Fallujah to push back (the Islamic State).”
US officials, speaking anonymously, confirmed the helicopters used were Apache attack helicopters. . AP
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