Coalition troops go into action against Al-Qaida

British-led coalition forces deployed 1,000 troops today to battle a ‘‘substantial force’’ of enemy fighters in a new combat operation in mountainous eastern Afghanistan, the top British commander in the coalition said.

Brigadier Roger Lane said the troops were sent to eastern Paktia province after an Australian special forces patrol came under fire yesterday.

No coalition casualties were reported but some enemy fighters have been killed, he said.

‘‘I can confirm that the coalition has made contact with the enemy and that some have been killed,’’ he said.

‘‘A number of attacks by air have been conducted.’’

The Royal Marines commander said Australian and US forces were involved in the British-led mission, dubbed Operation Condor.