Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Experts: Not So Fast on Libyan No-Fly Zone

Two separate think tanks that focus on global military strategy today are suggesting that a no-fly zone over Libya may not be the way to go for NATO or the United Nations, both of which are considering that option.

"Calls are growing for a no-fly zone over Libya, but a power or coalition of powers willing to enforce one remains elusive," writes George Friedman, leading analyst at U.S.-based STRAFOR strategic intelligence service.

"In evaluating such calls, it is useful to remember that in war, Murphy’s Law always lurks. What can go wrong will go wrong, in Libya as in Iraq or Afghanistan," Friedman adds.

The London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies contends a no-fly zone may be good for taking on Moammar Gadhafi's fighter jets, but would little impact on the Libyan strongman's use of slower,low-flying attack helicopters, which are believed to be doing much of the damage to rebels on the ground.

The IISS also posted a rundown of the weapons believed to be in rebel hands, as well as the firepower Gadhafi's forces are packing.

No comments:

Post a Comment