ERBIL, Kurdistan - Italy’s top defense official has promised his country will provide arms, ammunition and advanced weaponry to the Kurdistan Region in its ongoing fight against the Islamic State..

Defense chief Luigi Binelli Manetelli made the announcement, which also included Kurdistan’s first-ever military helicopter, in Erbil on Wednesday before visiting Peshmarga camps where more than 50 Italian trainers have been stationed. Manetelli is also expected to meet KRG Peshmarga minister, Mustrafa Said Qdir.

Italy, a member of the US-led coalition against ISIS, has also decided to send another 300 military trainers to Kurdistan along with more than 100 machine guns and an undisclosed amount of anti-tank missiles.

The promised helicopter will reportedly be used for logistical and medical support on the frontlines

Rudaw