Australia sends air support against Islamic State militants

Australian prime minister Tony Abbott told his country’s parliament that Australian warplanes would begin supporting US-led air missions against Islamic State today.

The Australian contribution is currently limited to two unmanned aircraft performing AWACS and refuelling support, however it has offensive air assets ready in theatre. 

In September, 600 troops and combat fighter planes from Australia were sent to the United Arab Emirates to prepare to join the US-coalition against IS. However, Australia has held back from engaging in combat missions. Abbot told parliament "Australian air strikes await final clearances from the Iraqi government and a further decision by our own."

US-led forces have been bombing IS targets in Iraq since August began striking targets in Syria last week after a wave of IS insurgents swept through Sunni areas in both Iraq and Syria, killing prisoners, expelling Kurds and ordering Shiites and non-Muslims to convert, or die.