Iraqis fire at ONW aircraft
UNITED STATES EUROPEAN COMMAND (14 Nov 99) -- Iraqi forces targeted Operation Northern Watch (ONW) aircraft today using surface-to-air missile radar guidance systems. The coalition aircraft detected the radar activity in the southeast quadrant of the Northern No-Fly Zone during routine flights.
The purpose of these flights is to enforce the northern No-Fly Zone. Coalition aircraft responded by dropping ordinance on the integrated air defense system. All coalition aircraft departed the area safely.
Coalition aircraft have been enforcing the Northern No-fly Zone for more than eight years. Since Dec. 28, 1998, Saddam Hussein has opted to challenge this enforcement by firing at coalition aircraft with surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and anti-aircraft artillery. Operation Northern Watch aircraft respond in self-defense to these threats while continuing to enforce the no-fly zone.
For more information, please contact the Combined Task Force Combined Information Bureau, ctf.cib@incirlik.af.mil, or phone +90-322-316-3704.
Updated 14 November 1999
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