Afghan-Nato forces have launched Operation Moshtarak in Afghanistan, the biggest offensive against the Taliban since the start of the war in 2001. Thousands of British, US, and Afghan troops landed by helicopter under darkness to begin their offensive to regain government control of central Helmand.

Major General Nick Carter, Nato regional commander for south Afghanistan told Today presenter John Humphrys that "the overall insertion has gone remarkably well."

On handing over control to Afghans after the offensive, Major Carter explained that "we are seeing really good signs of the Afghans taking the lead."

"This is about what people think and if we can persuade people that their Governor is doing a better job, then the Taliban will fade away."