French warplanes sent to Afghanistan

French President, Jacques Chirac has announced that French warplanes will be used in US-led military missions in Afghanistan.

Up to 10 French warplanes will attack srongholds of Osama bin Laden and his al-Qaida network during the next two weeks.

The French Defence Ministry said a maximum of 10 Mirage 2000 bombers would be deployed.

Earlier yesterday France sent 58 troops to Afghanistan to add to the small number of fighter planes they have already supplied, although these were being used in spy missions rather than in an attacking role.