when was it formed?
February 2001
Timor Leste Defence Force
The F-FDTL was established in February 2001
what is the timor leste defence force? A military body responsible for the defence of East Timor.
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Timor Leste Defence Force [SEP] Introduction
The Timor Leste Defence Force (, or Falintil-FDTL, often F-FDTL) is the military body responsible for the defence of East Timor. The F-FDTL was established in February 2001 and comprises two infantry battalions, small naval and air components and several supporting units. The F-FDTL's primary role is to protect East Timor from external threats. It also has an internal security role, which overlaps with that of the Policia Nacional de Timor Leste (PNTL). This overlap has led to tensions between the services, which have been exacerbated by poor morale and lack of discipline within the F-FDTL. The F-FDTL's problems came to a head in 2006 when almost half the force was dismissed following protests over discrimination and poor conditions.