"Such a package would include military liaison personnel; helicopters to ensure increased mobility for troops in the region; and command, control, communication, intelligence and reconnaissance assets to tie the entire force together.

"The AU force will also require additional on-the-ground training to fulfill its mission.

"Properly equipped, trained, and supported, the AU force will be able to fulfill an expanded mandate, including a robust mission statement and rules of engagement that permit the use of lethal force in the protection of civilians," it added.

The group emphasized it was not recommending US troops for combat in Sudan.