Dutch to contribute 1,200 to 1,400 troops to war on terrorism

The Dutch government will contribute 1,200 to 1,400 troops to the anti-terrorism campaign.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Wim Kok at the weekly cabinet meeting in The Hague.

It isn't immediately clear where the troops will be sent, but the forces will not participate in combat operations, Dutch television reports.

Six F-16 fighter planes, several transport aircraft, four Orion search planes, three frigates, two minesweepers and a submarine will also be made available, according to national NOS television news.

Details on the deployment of forces would be made after consultations with the US, the report says.

Until now the Dutch contribution to the international coalition has been limited to 40 air force personnel and two frigates, but the prime minister had said the Netherlands would "respond positively" to any US request for assistance.

The Dutch military support comes just a few days after neighbouring Germany said it will provide 3,900 forces to the Western alliance, in a move that is threatening the stability of the German government.

The ruling three-party Dutch coalition government broadly supports the bombing campaign in Afghanistan, with only a couple of small opposition parties voicing concerns.