WASHINGTON, June 17, 2015 - The Department of Defense Monday released to Congress the inaugural "Report on Enhancing Security and Stability in Afghanistan." The report, covering Dec. 1 to May 1, was released in accordance with the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act.
The NATO mission in Afghanistan transitioned at the beginning of this year. Formerly called the International Security Assistance Force, it is now the Resolute Support mission, which is a non-combat mission dedicated to training, advising and assisting the Afghanistan National Defense Security Forces, or ANDSF, and Afghan security ministries. Afghans have assumed responsibility for the security of their nation and Resolute Support remains committed to preparing the ANDSF for the difficult fight ahead, according to a DoD news release.
During the six-month reporting period, anti-Afghan forces continued to present a formidable threat, according to DoD. "As (Afghan) President Ghani acknowledged while addressing Congress onMarch 25, Afghanistan is 'a critical frontline nation in the war against extremism.'"
"The ANDSF has fought this war with resilience and professionalism, and their capabilities continue to improve," DoD said. "By the end of May, the force had achieved significant advancements in light airlift, casualty evacuation, and non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
Although considerable challenges remain, "the Department of Defense is confident that the ANDSF has the capabilities, capacities, and morale to set the conditions for Afghan-led reconciliation," the statement said.
The report is posted at www.defense.gov/pubs/June_1225_Report_Final.pdf