Mirage F1 of the LAF, source: afrigatenews.net
The Libyan National Army (LNA) announced on April 7 that warplanes of the Libyan Air Force (LAF) have carried out a series of airstrikes on forces loyal to the Libyan Government of National Accord (LGNA), which controls the capital of Tripoli.
Libyan sources said that the airstrikes targeted gatherings of pro-LGNA forces in the al-Naqlia camp in Tripoli. Several military vehicles were reportedly destroyed.
“We ensure that we are capable of striking the enemy’s gatherings, and that we can protected the lives of the civilians and their properties,” a short press released by the LNA’s media office reads.
The LAF controls several airbases in eastern Libya and operates dozens of warplanes, including two Mirage F1 fighter jets, twelve Mig-21 fighter jets, three Mig-23ML fighter bombers and a Su-22 fighter bomber.
A day earlier, the LGNA air force targeted LNA forces while they were advancing towards Tripoli. However, the airstrikes were ineffective. Following the aerial attack, a spokesman for the LNA announced that a no-fly zone was established over western Libya.
The LAF participation will likely boost the LNA advance on the ground. The upcoming hours will likely witness more airstrikes on pro-LGNA forces.
