500 Noncombatants to Be Dispatched on December 10th

The cabinet yesterday approved a bill called `the agreement to dispatch military troops to the war against terrorism` that would allow the government to send 500 noncombatants, including medical personnel, navy and air force transportation teams to support the U.S. war against terrorism.

According to the bill, the government plans to send 500 noncombatants, including 150 medical personnel, earlier requested by the U.S., and the navy transportation supporting team (200 people), and the air force transportation supporting team (150).

It was reported that patrol forces are included among 500 noncombatants, and marine forces or army will be dispatched, but not the ranger-commando forces that are familiar with the mountainous terrain operation. One Landing Ship Tank (LST) and four C130 transports will be sent as well.

As the bill was passed by the cabinet, the actual departure of the armed forces seems to be possible around December 10th if the bill is approved by the National Defense Committee in the National Assembly on 30th, and by the National Assembly on December 7th.

A Minister of National Defense official said, "It is anticipated that sooner or later the U.S. will make an official request to send the navy and air force transportation supporting teams. As the preparation for the dispatch, including the selection of the personnel, enters the final stage, dispatch is to be possible right after legal procedure is completed."

It was reported that the medical team, and the navy and air force transportation teams will be dispatched to the Central Asia, such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and to the operation area in the Pacific Headquarters, respectively.

Dong-Ki Sung esprit@donga.com