Coalition aircraft targeted and fired upon at Operation Northern Watch
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, TURKEY (12 May 1999) -- Today, Operation Northern Watch aircraft were targeted by Iraqi radar and fired upon by anti-aircraft artillery. In self-defense, coalition aircraft dropped GBU-12 and GBU-15 precision-guided bombs, and launched AGM-88 and AGM-130 missiles at Iraqi anti-aircraft artillery, radar and surface-to-air missile sites.
Results of the strike are still being assessed, however, a review of post-strike data indicates that one of the targets, believed to have been a surface-to-air missile site, now appears to have been a nomadic camp with a number of livestock in the area. Every effort is taken to avoid any collateral damage to civilians and civilian property. Ultimate responsibility, however, lies with Saddam Hussein.
Coalition aircraft have been enforcing the northern no-fly zone for more than eight years. Beginning last December, Saddam Hussein opted to challenge coalition aircraft enforcing the northern no-fly zone, putting his own people in harms way. As he continues to target coalition aircraft, the Iraqi people will continue to be at risk. Coalition aircraft have every legal right to defend themselves against Iraqi hostility, and will continue to do so.
The Combined Task Force Combined Information Bureau can be reached at +90-322-316-3704.
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