RAF hit Libyan rocket launchers

The targets destroyed by the RAF Tornado jets were identified during previous reconnaissance flights

RAF war planes have destroyed rocket launchers and dozens of Scud-missile containers in Libya, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said.

Two Tornado planes targeted a weapons system known as the FROG-7 – which can fire rockets more than 40 miles (64km) – near the city of Sirte on Friday.

The planes also destroyed at least 30 containers used for transporting long-range Scud missiles.

Defence Secretary Liam Fox said the mission was “hugely successful”.

It was also an example of how strikes on Gaddafi’s forces were being stepped up, he said.

“I have no doubt that this stockpile of weapons could have been used to threaten and kill innocent Libyans.

“We continue to degrade and destroy a range of military assets including tanks, armoured personnel carriers and rocket launchers that threaten the civilian population.

“The international coalition is resolute in its UN-mandated task of protecting the civilian population,” he said.

The targets were identified during previous reconnaissance flights.

Scuds have a range of around 200 miles (320km) and can carry a one-tonne warhead.

Under the terms of United Nations Security Council resolution 1973, Nato-led forces are enforcing a no-fly zone over the country, as well as carrying out missions aimed at preventing Col Gaddafi’s forces from attacking civilians.

Nato aircraft have flown more that 5,300 sorties since the no-fly zone was put in place in March.

The MoD’s announcement comes as government forces in Libya have been scattering land mines in the port city of Misrata, according to rebels and video footage.

The use of Chinese anti-vehicle mines was verified by Human Rights Watch.

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