The targets
struck included military vehicles, military equipment
and fielded forces.
“This
successful engagement demonstrates the unique capabilities
brought to bear by attack helicopters,” said Lieutenant-General
Charles Bouchard, Commander of Operation Unified Protector.
“We will continue to use these assets whenever and
wherever needed, using the same precision as we do in
all of our missions.”
The use of
attack helicopters provides the NATO operation with additional
flexibility to track and engage pro-Qadhafi forces who
deliberately target civilians and attempt to hide in populated
areas.
NATO forces
are constantly reviewing their operations and use of available
assets, including attack helicopters, to best maintain
the momentum and increase the pressure on pro-Qadhafi
forces.
NATO’s
operation is being conducted under the United Nations
Security Resolution 1973, which calls for an immediate
end to all attacks against civilians and authorized all
necessary measures to protect civilians and civilian populated
areas under threat of attack in Libya.
