Oslo - Norway has decided to contribute a field hospital to the incoming United Nations mission in Chad, the Norwegian Defence Ministry said Tuesday.

The UN Mission known as MINURCAT II will also comprise neighbouring Central African Republic, and was due to begin as of March 15 next year when a European Union force leaves the region.

The UN mission was aimed at protecting civilians living in and near refugee camps, and also to protect aid workers in eastern Chad.

The number of refugees is estimated at 1.2 million including some 290,000 refugees from Darfur in neighbouring Sudan, and some 180,000 displaced in Chad itself.

The Norwegian field hospital was estimated to have a 150-strong staff including 90 working in the hospital.

Norwegian Defence Minister Anne-Grete Strom-Erichsen said the contribution was part of Oslo's aim to offer "concrete" assistance and take part in UN peacekeeping operations.

"The link to the conflict in Darfur is clear. By taking part in the UN operation in Chad, Norway wants to support the UN presence in the region," the minister added.

Citing lack of capacity, she said Norway was however not to contribute personnel to UN operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. (dpa)