Coalition forces respond to Iraqi radar threats
April 21, 1999
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, TURKEY -- Between approximately 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Iraqi time today, Operation Northern Watch (ONW) aircraft detected Iraqi radar posing a threat to coalition aircraft. Responding in self-defense, U.S. Air Force F-16C Falcons dropped GBU-12 laser guided bombs on anti-aircraft and surface-to-air missile sites west of Mosul.
All coalition aircraft departed the area safely.
Damage to Iraqi forces is currently being assessed.
Coalition aircraft have been enforcing the Northern no-fly zone for nearly eight years. Since Dec. 28, 1998, Saddam Hussein has opted to challenge this enforcement by targeting coalition aircraft with radar, surface-to-air missile systems and anti-aircraft artillery. Operation Northern Watch aircraft will respond in self-defense to these threats while continuing to enforce the no-fly zone.
Coalition forces assigned to ONW will continue to enforce the northern no-fly zone.
The ONW Combined Task Force Public Affairs can be reached at +90-322316-3679.
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