Defence Minister Robert Hill said the government recognised Iraqi hospitals had been stretched by the war and wanted to help relieve some of the pressure.

He said the first batch of medical supplies would come from HMAS Kanimbla, an Australian warship currently in the Gulf, and be delivered to the Iraqi capital by an Australian or United States transport aircraft.

It will be supplemented by two Hercules-loads of supplies direct from Australia.

"The Australian government recognises hospital capabilities in Iraq have been stretched by the conflict," Hill said in a statement.

"Operation Baghdad Assist will deliver much-needed medical supplies to help relieve some of the pressure on medical facilities and to contribute to the welfare of the Iraqi people."

The supplies will be distributed around Baghdad hospitals with the help of advice from US military doctors.

Australia, which joined the United States and Britain in sending troops into Iraq, has so far earmarked 100 million dollars (60 million US) in humanitarian aid for Iraq.

SPACE.WIRE