The Turkish military has reportedly deployed a MIM-23 Hawk medium-range air defense system in the northern Libyan city of Misrata.
On May 24, Twitter user Aldin shared satellite images showing what appears to be a Hawk battery in the southwestern part of Misrata’s Air Academy. Turkey is the only ally of the Government of National Accord (GNA) that operates systems of this type.
Imagery of what is most likely MIM-23 Hawk site based at #Misrata Airport in #Libya pic.twitter.com/hvdiSjQ2lj
— Aldin ?? (@aldin_ww) May 24, 2020
In January, Turkey deployed at least one Hawk system in the Mitiga International Airport, east of the Libyan capital of Tripoli. The system has not been seen in action so far.
The Air Defense Command of the Turkish Air Force (TAF) has 16 Hawk systems, all were upgraded to the XXI standard. With the range of up to 45 km, the Hawk system can be lethal for unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) supporting the Libyan National Army (LNA).
Turkey stepped up its support for the GNA in the last few weeks. This allowed GNA forces to make gains on the ground. Meanwhile, the LNA is reportedly reorganizing and arming its troops to strike back.
