Britain to maintain troop presence in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Britain will maintain its troop presence in Afghanistan to continue training and supporting local military forces, the Ministry of Defense announced.

Britain will uphold its current commitment of around 450 troops in Afghanistan throughout 2016 as part of NATO's Resolute Support Mission. The announcement comes Tuesday as military officials review the performance of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces.

British troops stationed in the country will be limited to non-combat roles, including training local forces, mentoring instructors for the Afghan National Army Officer Academy program, and joining other NATO partner military officials in advising local authorities on security operations.

British Defense Secretary Micahel Fallon said British involvement in building up security forces in the country has helped Afghanistan bolster its defensive capabilities.

"The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces have shown dedication and professionalism in response to the challenges they have faced since taking leadership of the country's security," Fallon told Parliament. "Maintaining our military presence will provide crucial assistance to them as they continue to grow stronger."

The move has Britain joining the United States in extending their military presence. President Barack Obama made a similar announcement earlier in October, saying 9,800 American troops will remain in the country, also limited to non-combat roles as government forces battle the Taliban and other militants in the region.

Western powers continue to play a strong supportive role in developing Afghanistan's security personnel. U.S. officials have recently revealed local police forces lack local support, in part due to Afghan government officials using personnel as bodyguards.