BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (June 11, 2008) – Coalition forces were engaged by anti-Afghan forces in Konar province on Tuesday during an operation that had been previously coordinated with Pakistan.

Coalition forces began receiving small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire from an unknown number of anti-Afghan forces approximately 200 meters inside Konar province.  Coalition forces returned fire in self-defense.

Shortly after the attack began, Coalition forces informed the Pakistan Army that they were being engaged by anti-Afghan forces in a wooded area near the Gorparai checkpoint.  At that same time, an unmanned aerial system also identified anti-Afghan forces firing at Coalition forces.  In self-defense, Coalition forces fired artillery rounds at the militants.

An unmanned aerial system identified additional anti-Afghan forces joining the attack against the Coalition forces.  While maintaining positive identification of the enemy, close-air support was then used by Coalition forces to gain fire superiority until the threat was eliminated.

At no time did Coalition ground forces cross into Pakistan.

The investigation of this incident is ongoing.