The conflict in northern Mali began in January 2012 with radical Islamists (affiliated to al-Qaeda) advancing into northern Mali. The Malian government had a hard time maintaining full control over their country. The fledgling government requested support from the international community on combating the Islamic militants. In <answer>January 2013</answer>, France intervened on behalf of the Malian government's request and deployed troops into the region. They launched Operation Serval on 11 <answer>January 2013</answer>, with the hopes of dislodging the al-Qaeda affiliated groups from northern Mali.
When did France provide troops in Mali?
January 2013