Black Watch begins move north into US-controlled Iraq

Troops from the Black Watch have today begun the move north out of Basra and into the US-controlled zone south of Baghdad.

The 850-strong battle group consists of armoured infantry from the 1st Battalion The Black Watch, a Queen's Dragoon Guards armoured reconnaissance unit, and elements of 40 Commando Royal Marines.

Supporting specialists from across the army, including the Royal Engineers, Royal Logistic Corps, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, and Royal Military Police have also joined in the redeployment.

The road move was supported by vehicle transporters from the US Army's 2123rd Transport Company.

The Defence Secretary confirmed in the House of Commons last week that he had acceded to a US request for British troops to be sent to south west Baghdad to relieve its forces in the area.

The troops will not, however, come under the aegis of US commanders, and the operational command of soldiers remains with General Rollo, the UK's commanding officer in the region.

The total deployment of around 850 personnel will "operate at all times" under UK rules of engagement. The duration of the deployment will be "weeks rather than months", it was announced.

There are currently around 8,500 British troops stationed in Iraq.

(gmcg)