A major training base operated by the so-called Islamic State (IS) and located in one of Saddam Hussein's former palaces, has been bombed by the RAF, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

The Mosul palace built by the former Iraqi dictator near the River Tigris was attacked by a pair of RAF Typhoons in a joint coalition operation on Monday.

The MoD said the attack followed extensive surveillance which established that the terrorist group, also known as Daesh, were using the sprawling grounds as a headquarters and training centre for foreign terrorist recruits.

The British contribution was a pair of Tornados, armed with the largest guided bombs in the RAF's inventory, the 2000lb Enhanced Paveway III, which were used to target first the headquarters buildings, then a security centre. Initial analysis indicates that the coalition mission was successful. > Ministry of Defence

The complex included the main palace building, used as an accommodation and meeting venue by the terrorists, as well as a number of more discreet outbuildings used for command and control, training, internal security and repression.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said IS, also known as Daesh, is "losing followers and territory".

Daesh has been losing followers and territory for months, and emphatic strikes like this show that we and the coalition will not waver. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon

Meanwhile, Mr Fallon also announced that additional UK troops will deploy to Iraq to support the military effort against IS.

The trainers are the first wave of the latest boost to the UK’s contribution to the 'Counter Daesh' campaign.

They will be based at the Al Asad airbase where they will provide counter improvised explosive device, first aid and infantry skills training.

Mr Fallon said: "These troops will bolster a campaign that has Daesh on the back foot.

"The uplift underlines that Britain is stepping up, not stepping back from our International commitments, following the EU referendum."