Posted on 03/28/2011 4:42:42 PM PDT by Free ThinkerNY
The U.S. military dramatically stepped up its assault on Libyan government ground forces this weekend, launching its first attacks with AC-130 flying gunships and A-10 attack aircraft, which are designed to strike enemy ground troops and supply convoys, according to senior U.S. military officials.
Their use, during several days of heavy fighting in which the momentum seemed to swing in favor of the rebels, demonstrated how allied military forces have been drawn deeper into the chaotic fight in Libya.
A mission that initially seemed to revolve around establishing a no-fly zone has become focused on halting advances by ground forces in and around Libyas key coastal cities.
The AC-130s, which fly low and slow over the battlefield and are typically more vulnerable to enemy fire than fast-moving fighter jets, were deployed only after a week of sustained coalition attacks on Libyan government air defenses and radar.
Armed with heavy machine guns and cannons that rake the ground, they allow strikes on dug-in Libyan ground forces and convoys in closer proximity to civilians.
Their use in Libya could be a significant game changer, said a senior military official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations.
(Excerpt) Read more at washingtonpost.com ...
They shouldn’t be there at!
Interesting to learn that C-130s are slower than fighter jets. Did these journos have to go to a special Military Journalist training school to learn this high-tech stuff?
What’s “No Fly” about gunships?
Are they going to use AC-130s as fighters?
They’re just enforcing the “no-march” zone.
From a no fly zone to leading the AQ attack. Proud day for america.
At what point does this “kinetic military operation” become a “war”?
I guess the USA is the air force of the downtrodden now.
I note the compost didn’t dare enable comments.
Stop this madness.
KA-DAFFY DUCK!
Two of the nastiest pieces of equipment in the air today.
I love ‘em.
Problem is, who are they supporting?
War is Peace.
So much for the “no-fly” zone. BTT.
If I’ve learned anything at all from watching the You Tube and other videos on Libya, it is that Ghadaffi has a plethora of anti-aircraft weapons. Everything from 12.7MM up to 57MM. The 14.7s seem to be everywhere.
This bodes ill for slower aircraft. And the C-130 has a crew of 13...
Aha! I didn’t know that. Everything is clear now. Thank you.
THey’ll stay far above undirected AA fire. A missile might get lucky, but not AA.
Those enemy ground troops and supply convoys won’t be violating Obama’s No-Fly Zone now!
The 130 can level an entire forrest. Anyone not hit by bullets is skewered by splintered wood or crushed by falling trees.
Hummus Bellum Infinitum
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