NATO strikes in Libya
Source: Agencies |
June 5, 2011, Sunday
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BRITISH and French attack helicopters were used to strike inside Libya for the first time overnight yesterday, hitting targets in the oil port of Brega as NATO forces stepped up their air war against Muammar Gadhafi.
A NATO-led military alliance extended its mission to protect civilians in Libya for a further 90 days this week, and France said it was stepping up military pressure as well as working with those close to Gadhafi to try to persuade him to quit.
"This was the first operational mission flown by British Army Apaches at sea," British Secretary of State for Defence Liam Fox said.
"The additional capabilities now being employed by NATO further reinforces the UK's enduring commitment and NATO's determination to ensure that the people of Libya are free to determine their own future."
Military analysts say attack helicopters will allow more precise strikes against pro-Gadhafi forces hiding in built-up areas than the high-flying jets used so far, while reducing the risk of civilian casualties.
But given the vulnerability of helicopters to ground fire, their deployment also increases the risk of Western forces suffering their first casualties of the campaign.
Now in its fourth month, the Libyan conflict is deadlocked, with rebels unable to advance towards Tripoli, where Gadhafi appears to be entrenched.
A NATO-led military alliance extended its mission to protect civilians in Libya for a further 90 days this week, and France said it was stepping up military pressure as well as working with those close to Gadhafi to try to persuade him to quit.
"This was the first operational mission flown by British Army Apaches at sea," British Secretary of State for Defence Liam Fox said.
"The additional capabilities now being employed by NATO further reinforces the UK's enduring commitment and NATO's determination to ensure that the people of Libya are free to determine their own future."
Military analysts say attack helicopters will allow more precise strikes against pro-Gadhafi forces hiding in built-up areas than the high-flying jets used so far, while reducing the risk of civilian casualties.
But given the vulnerability of helicopters to ground fire, their deployment also increases the risk of Western forces suffering their first casualties of the campaign.
Now in its fourth month, the Libyan conflict is deadlocked, with rebels unable to advance towards Tripoli, where Gadhafi appears to be entrenched.
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