Canada's military is calling its operation in Afghanistan "Athena," after the Greek goddess who protected cities. Critics, though, are already dubbing it "Mission Impossible."

Canada plans to send 1,800 troops to Kabul this summer. It's part of an international force to stabilize and secure the capital and patrol the airport. They will be acting as police in what has become a lawless land. The Canadian soldiers won't be going as peacekeepers. They're peace enforcers -- a big difference.

CTV's Joy Malbon reports went to Camp Petawawa near Ottawa where she talked to soldiers with the 3rd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment concerned about their mission to march into treacherous territory. Most of them, they have one worry on their mind.

"Survivability," says Cpl. Alber Patrick. "Understanding all the variables so you can get your butt out."

"We're trying to make them aware they're in the business of staying alive so they come back sitting in a plane not a box or a bag," explains Drill Instructor Cpl. Sean Richardson.

It's a mission critics say has stretched the Canadian troops too thin, and sent the army on a spending spree for new equipment.

"It's been dubbed Mission Impossible," says military analyst Scott Taylor. "We are doing this obviously under American Pressure. To show that we're doing something in the war against terror."

Even Canada's top soldier admits taking Canada to Kabul means the forces won't be able to mount another big international mission for more than a year.

"It will cause us to think very seriously as we make recommendations to the government about what else can be done," Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Ray Henault told CTV from NATO headquarters in Brussels.

Much of what these soldiers are learning is simply how to stay alive as they carry the Canadian flag into Kabul.

"I just hope everyone comes back in one piece that's my biggest concern that we all come back safely," Cpl. Charles Paquette.