U.S. Air Forces Central Command, in coordination with Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, has established a Coalition Aviation Advisory and Training Team in Iraq, according to a command press release.

Working with the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq, the CAATT will help strengthen the aviation capabilities of the Iraqi Security Forces in its fight against ISIS, officials said.

“This coalition team of airmen will build upon our Iraqi partner’s combat-proven capabilities to ensure a capable, affordable, professional, and sustainable Iraqi Aviation Enterprise,” said Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces Central Command commander, in the press release.

“Together with our Iraqi Security Forces partners, we will ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS in Iraq,” he added.

A pair of U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles fly over northern Iraq early in the morning of Sept. 23, 2014, after conducting airstrikes in Syria. These aircraft were part of a large coalition strike package that was the first to strike ISIL targets in Syria. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Matthew Bruch/Released)

The partnership was designed around existing resources and partner capabilities and does not indicate an increase in the number of troops deployed to Iraq, officials said.

The team will focus on training the Iraqi air force to take on air missions and other responsibilities, with the goal of eventually decreasing overall coalition air support to the country, officials said.

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