Canada in Iraq: RCAF Strike ISIS Position near Ramadi

On 25 November 2015, while taking part in coalition airstrikes to increase Iraqi security forces' freedom of movement in the region, two CF-18 Hornets successfully struck an ISIS fighting position in the vicinity of Ramadi using precision guided munitions. 

Meanwhile, the Canadian Armed Forces is reviewing information about a Nov. 19 airstrike, which is alleged to have caused civilian casualties. It is unclear which air force may have been involved.

The CAF originally noted that it was confident that its bombs did not injure or kill civilians.

Local Iraqi media reports indicate that bombs hit both an Islamic State facility in Mosul as well as a nearby dairy. Between five and 13 people at the dairy were reportedly killed.

“Whenever we obtain new information regarding potential allegations of civilian casualties, we conduct a review of all available information,” according to Capt. Kirk Sullivan in a note to Defence Watch. “The CAF, in conjunction with U.S. CENTCOM, is currently reviewing all available and credible information regarding the potential allegations of civilian casualties as a result of this airstrike. No additional information is available at this time.”

“The airstrike by CF-18 Hornets on November 19 served to increase Iraqi security forces’ freedom of movement in the region by eliminating an ISIS Improvised Explosive Device factory, reducing the threat posed by ISIS to civilians and members of the Iraqi security forces,” Sullivan added.