Pakistan launches military offensive in Bajaur

The clashes are the latest manifestation of a major military operation launched by the army and paramilitary Corps of Frontier Scouts on 24 January in Bajaur, the northernmost of the seven Federally Administered Tribal Agencies (FATA). The operation is aimed at limiting the movement and operations of Pakistan Taliban militants. A Pakistani source close to operational planning told Jane's: "[Bajaur] is host to 10 leading and recognised militant commanders, so this operation is of great significance."

The drive in Bajaur is being conducted by units from the army and the Scouts, a paramilitary force with a strength of 30,000 troops in North West Frontier Province (NWFP). The Scouts in NWFP have recently been reorganised and now have their own integral artillery and tanks, alongside dedicated helicopters (two AH-1 Cobra, two Bell 412 and an Mi-17). Instead of all units being under direct command from the HQ in Peshawar, there are now four sector HQs, each commanded by a brigadier; in Tank, Bannu, Warsak and Timergarat. Army units are now placed under Scouts commanders.