International coalition force is planning ground operation Libya from Russian intelligence 0503113

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Defense News - Libya
 

Friday, March 25, 2011, 07:18 PM
 
The International coalition force is planning a ground operation in Libya, from Russian intelligence.
 
 
The international coalition force is planning a ground operation in Libya that could start in late April, a high-ranking Russian intelligence service source said on Friday, March 25, 2011.
     
The international coalition force is planning a ground operation in Libya that could start in late April, a high-ranking Russian intelligence service source said on Friday, March 25, 2011.
A French aircraft of the International coalition
     

"Information coming via different channels shows that NATO countries, with the active participation of Britain and the United States, are developing a plan for a ground operation on Libyan territory," he said.

"From all indications, a ground operation will be launched if the alliance fails to force the Gaddafi regime to capitulate with air strikes and missile attacks."

If the events in Libya follow this scenario, the ground operation could start "in late April-early May," he added.

The UN Security Council imposed a no-fly zone over Libya on March 17, allowing "all necessary measures" to protect civilians from Muammar Gaddafi's attacks on rebel-held towns.

The operation to enforce the no-fly zone, codenamed Odyssey Dawn, is being conducted jointly by 13 states, including the United States, Britain and France.

Western warplanes have flown more than 300 sorties over the North African country and fired 162 Tomahawk missiles in the UN mission.
     
More than 4,000 sailors and Marines from the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit began to deploy from Norfolk and Little Creek, Va., March 23, as part of an early deployment to support Operation Odyssey Dawn in the Mediterranean Sea.
Soldiers of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit U.S. Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune
     
More than 4,000 sailors and Marines from the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit began to deploy from Norfolk and Little Creek, Va., March 23, as part of an early deployment to support Operation Odyssey Dawn in the Mediterranean Sea.

The decision to deploy the BATARG/22nd MEU ahead of its previously scheduled deployment date was made based on continuing urgent needs in Libya and the region.

“Amphibious ships are optimally suited for executing a wide range of missions, from humanitarian assistance to theater and maritime security operations,” said Capt. Steven J. Yoder, BATARG commander. “There is no doubt in my mind that our Sailors and Marines will excel at whatever task we are called upon to perform.”