A French-led military operation to protect civilians in the Central African Republic is being launched after scores died in fresh sectarian fighting on Thursday.
A contingent of 650 troops there will be doubled the BBC reports.
The United Nations Security Council earlier authorised French and African troops in Central African Republic to use force to protect civilians.
It has also imposed an arms embargo on the country and asked the UN to prepare for a possible peacekeeping mission.
More than 100 people have been killed during fighting in the capital Bangui, between former rebel armed groups, and supporters of the ousted president Francois Bozize.
Violence in the country has raised fears of mass killings along sectarian lines.
