Operation Okra was the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the international military intervention against the Islamic State (ISIL). The operation formed part of Joint Task Force 633 and was conducted in Iraq and Syria from 31 August 2014 until its conclusion on 20 December 2024【source】.
Overview
- Location: Iraq and Syria
- Period: 31 August 2014 – 20 December 2024 (approximately ten years)【source】
- Primary Objective: To support the coalition’s campaign to degrade and defeat ISIL, primarily through air strikes, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and training of Iraqi security forces【source】.
Australian Contribution
| Branch | Role / Assets |
|---|---|
| Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) | Deployed an Air Task Group (ATG) comprising up to eight F/A‑18F Super Hornet strike fighters, an E‑7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, and a KC‑30A aerial refuelling tanker. The ATG operated from Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates and later also from Al Dhafra Air Base near Abu Dhabi【source】. |
| Australian Army | Provided a training team (Task Group Taji) to assist Iraqi Security Forces, as well as Special Operations Task Force elements【source】. |
| Australian Signals Directorate | Contributed communications and intelligence support【source】. |
Development of the Operation
- Initial Deployment (2014): Following an Australian government announcement on 14 September 2014, the ATG commenced operations on 1 October 2014, with Prime Minister Tony Abbott authorising air strikes against ISIL targets in Iraq three days later【source】.
- Extension to Syria (2015): In September 2015, coalition decisions led to the extension of Australian air strikes into Syrian territory, targeting ISIL positions there【source】.
Operational Highlights
- Air Strikes in Iraq: The ATG conducted sustained precision strike missions against ISIL command‑and‑control nodes, logistics hubs, and training facilities throughout Iraq.
- Training Mission (Task Group Taji): Beginning in April 2015, Australian Army personnel provided advisory and mentorship to Iraqi Security Forces, enhancing their capability to conduct independent operations【source】.
- Temporary Suspension (June 2017): In response to the United States downing a Syrian aircraft, Australia temporarily halted its Syrian air strikes on 20 June 2017, resuming operations later that month after diplomatic consultations【source】.
Conclusion
Operation Okra formally ended on 20 December 2024, marking the conclusion of Australia’s decade‑long contribution to the coalition against ISIL. The operation is noted for its integration of air power, training assistance, and intelligence support within a multinational framework aimed at degrading the territorial holdings and operational capacity of the Islamic State【source】.