New Delhi: Armed with nine helicopters, including four gunships, the largest-ever contingent of the Indian Air Force is all set to leave for the trouble-torn African Republic of Congo as part of the UN Peacekeeping Mission in the country.

The 243-strong contingent, which was given a ceremonial flag-off by Air Chief Marshal S Krishnaswamy, is scheduled to be stationed in Congo for a year.

Krishnaswamy, while wishing the troops on their mission, discounted the possibility of the contingent facing combat in Congo, saying the UN was very clear in stating that no peacekeeping force could mount a combat operation.

"Combat is not expected in an operation of this kind. The UN rules of engagement clearly state that no peacekeeping force can mount an offensive operation. It is only if we face any danger that we can fire, but not necessarily to kill," he said.

The first of nine aircraft, including five MI-17 utility helicopters and four MI-35 gunships for combat purposes, would be leaving for Congo on July 13, Air Force officials said, adding a 90-member strong contingent from the Army would also be joining them.

This is the largest ever contingent of the Indian Air Force to leave on a peacekeeping mission and the second one to leave for Congo after a gap of 33 years, they said.

"It is a matter of pride that you are being selected for such an important assignment, but never think that you are serving in a foreign country. Serving under the UN flag is as important as serving for your own country," Krishnaswamy said in his talk to the contingent.

PTI