Britain helps ANAOA train over 1,300 Afghan Army officers

During a visit to the Afghan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA) in Kabul, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has announced that Britain has helped it train a record number of Afghan Army officers.

According to the MoD the ANAOA has played a crucial role in developing the next generation of Afghan officers, training more female officers than ever. Both the UK and NATO partners have been providing extensive support to the academy, including mentoring Afghan instructors.

Fallon said: “Afghan forces are now leading security for their country and hundreds of British troops are providing crucial support. Our long term commitment to help build a more secure and prosperous Afghanistan will make the region more stable and the streets of Britain safer.”

450 British troops our second are currently deployed in Afghanistan and provide advisors to the Afghan Security Ministries and support NATO’s Resolute Support Mission through the Kabul Security Force.

Fallon added: “The UAE is an important partner in the campaign against ISIL and promoting security and prosperity across the Gulf. As part of our longstanding defence relationship we will continue to enhance our military co-operation across all areas.”