The NATO-led counter-insurgency operation is the largest since the conflict began in 2001. It involves 15,000 ISAF troops from Britain, Afghanistan, Australia, Canada, the US, France, Denmark and Estonia.

Carried out in three well-planned stages, the long-term operation aims to remove insurgents from areas of central Helmand previously untouched by ISAF. It demonstrates the Afghan Government's commitment to increasing responsibility for securing the country's future.

Key objectives are to improve security and freedom of movement within the main population areas of central Helmand province and are intended to:

• secure areas routinely used by the Taliban as a base from which to launch attacks against ISAF troops and the Afghan civilian population;
• build on the progress made by operations in 2009, which have already played a part in the gradual process of security in central Helmand;
• help the Afghan Government take more responsibility for the security and stability of the province.

By securing these key population centres, Afghan security forces and their ISAF partners will pave the way for greater economic development and growth of governance.

The success and positive momentum of Operation MOSHTARAK continues as operations transition from 'Clearing' to 'Holding' and 'Building'.