Two Dutch F-16 fighter jets dropped several bombs in the eastern Afghan province of Badghis last Friday in an effort to help American soldiers who had come under fire from rebels.

A spokesman for the defence ministry said the mission was successful but there was no word on any casualties.
The jets were involved in regular flying exercises when the Americans asked for help.
It was the second time Dutch F-16s have dropped bombs since they were sent to support the police training mission which the Netherlands currently leads.
Parliament voted narrowly in favour of sending police trainers to Afghanistan on the condition they were only used for civilian purposes.