U.S. to deploy 560 more troops to Iraq, Defense Secretary Ash Carter says

Morgan Manella
Updated
Ash Carter Arrives in Iraq amid Effort to Retake Mosul from ISIS
Ash Carter Arrives in Iraq amid Effort to Retake Mosul from ISIS

BAGHDAD — The U.S. will deploy an additional 560 troops to Iraq, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said Monday.

Carter made the announcement during an unannounced visit to Baghdad, saying the troops will deploy for infrastructure and logistical support at Qayara airfield south of Mosul.

Iraqi forces recaptured the strategically-located base on Saturday from ISIS. The airfield could prove a critical asset in the impending operation to wrest Mosul from ISIS' grip.

The fight for Mosul was described by one senior defense official ahead of Carter's trip as "the fight for Iraq... the culminating battle."

President Barack Obama has approved the additional deployment announced Monday, which will bring the total number of U.S. servicemen in Iraq to around 4,600.

RELATED: Photos of U.S. troops in Iraq

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