Today's defence news is dominated by the reporting that the battle has begun for the city of Mosul, the last remaining stronghold of Daesh in Iraq.
Mosul
This morning there has been widespread coverage across broadcast and print media reporting on the military operation to retake Mosul from Daesh.
Reporting reflects that the battle to liberate Mosul is the most significant and complex battle in the Middle East since the American invasion of Iraq 13 years ago, and would see Daesh lose a major stronghold.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
Daesh are on the back foot. The beginning of the encirclement of Mosul today is a big moment in our efforts to rid Iraq of Daesh. Mosul is a large and complex city and operations there will be tough but with Coalition support Iraqi forces will prevail.
Alongside our Coalition partners, the UK will continue to play a leading role in the air and on the ground, including through our strike missions, specialised surveillance, humanitarian support and the mentoring and training of Iraqi forces.
Syria
The Guardian, Daily Express and The Independent follow up on reports that the US and UK are considering fresh economic sanctions against the Syrian government and its supporters in response to the continued bombardment of Aleppo.
Separately to yesterday’s talks, The Financial Times, The Telegraph, The Guardian and Independent all report that Syrian rebels, backed by Turkey, say they have recaptured Dabiq from Daesh.
Fitness Gadgets
The Telegraph and Daily Star follow up reporting that soldiers have been given Fitbit gadgets to get them into shape.
An MOD spokesperson:
Over 95% of our personnel routinely pass their fitness tests, but a wearable technology device can be a useful tool for those who need to track injury-recovery and fitness. They are not in general use across the Armed Forces.
