Australian troops could arrive in Dili as early as Thursday afternoon to quell a rebellion by renegade soldiers. (Photo: yahoo)

    CANBERRA, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister John Howard said on Thursday that 150 Australian commandos and helicopters will fly into the Timor-Leste capital Dili this afternoon to help restore order.

    He told the parliament here that C-130 Hercules aircraft will also be sent there as part of the mission to secure the perimeter of Dili international airport.

    "Australia has a vital national interest in the promotion and maintenance of stability in our region," he said.

    A total of 1,300 troops would be deployed in Timor-Leste, according to Howard.

    The prime minister said Australian troops may have casualties in Timor-Leste.

    "This is a dangerous mission and a dangerous situation and we must not walk away from the possibility that casualties could be suffered by the forces that go to Timor-Leste," he said.

    At least two people were killed and nine others injured as rebel soldiers and pro-government forces fought in Dili for the last few days. The Timor-Leste government has asked for foreign military assistance to help control situation. Enditem