The DD-21 would serve that mission in several ways, its defenders say.

Their missions over Afghanistan last six hours on average, at a cost of more than $5,000 per hour, the Pentagon said.

In a statement, the mission said, "While these phenomena do not appear to be nationwide, they are a cause for concern."

The French mission said it had assurances of at least 11 votes in favor.

A diplomatic mission of the highest urgency, its captain had said when he requested permission to approach.

The Australian mission said she was in Australia and could not be reached for comment.

"Some mission," said Lewis, but his heart wasn't in it.

'The mission,' he said, watching me all the time.

The missions themselves could be affordable, particularly if several nations cooperated in doing them, he said.

"Our mission says that we will provide health care and social services to underserved people."