U.S. to keep Patriot missiles in Turkey for up to another year

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told the Turkish foreign minister on Monday the United States would keep its two Patriot missile batteries in Turkey for up to another year, the Pentagon said.

The expected decision follows backing last week by NATO allies for the extension, which helps bolster Turkish air defenses as Syria's civil war rages.

"The United States has decided to continue its contribution of two Patriot batteries under NATO command and control for up to one additional year, in response to Turkey's request," the Defense Department said in statement after Hagel met with Ahmet Davutoglu at the Pentagon.

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