Pace: Independent Iraqi Battalions in Decline

"Gen. Peter Pace says that the number of Iraqi battalions (about 500 men) who can operate wholly independently of the US forces has fallen in the past year from 10 to only 6. He also says we should not worry about that statistic.

He points out that the number of battalions who can be 'in the lead' on military operations has risen from 88 to 100. But presumably it has only really risen to 96, with 4 of the new 'in the lead' battalions having formerly been able to operate independently.

In fact, the important figure is how many can operate independently. That means that they will go to the front when ordered, will actually fight, won't run away, and might actually accomplish something, even if there are no US troops anywhere nearby. "
Informed Comment