Singapore - A Singapore Air Force tanker aircraft was deployed to the Gulf on Wednesday to support the multinational reconstruction efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the government said.

Major-General Ng Chee Khern officiated at the send-off ceremony at Changi Air Base.

The 36-man KC-135 detachment "will conduct air-to-air refueling missions in support of the coalition forces during its three months deployment," an air force statement said.

The air force has made four deployments of KC-135 tanker aircraft, four deployments of landing ships and one of a C-130 transit aircraft to the Gulf since 2003.

Singapore has been a staunch supporter of the US efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. (dpa)