Libyan interim forces destroy SAM-7 rockets and launchers
- 13 years ago
A stockpile of now-obsolete SAM-7 rockets left behind by Gaddafi forces in Libya.
These Russian and Bulgarian-made surface-to-air missiles, dating back to the 1970s, can be fired from the shoulder to destroy aircraft or other missiles.
The Gaddafi regime reportedly used up to 15,000 of these rockets - still much sought after by Al Qaeda and other militant groups.
On Saturday, interim government forces were given the order to destroy the remaining missiles.
Brigadier Mohamed Hassan Hedayah - head of the weapons department in the Libyan National Army - said he wanted to send a tough message.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) HEAD OF THE ARMAMENT DEPARTMENT IN THE NATIONAL LIBYAN ARMY, BRIGADIER MOHAMED HEDAYAH, SAYING:
"This is to show the world that we are strong and able to take such decisions. That we can contribute to the protection of people around the world from danger, and we are committed to destroying such weapons."
Around 400 of the rockets were found in eastern Libya by interim government forces.
They say up to 1000 rockets are still missing.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters
These Russian and Bulgarian-made surface-to-air missiles, dating back to the 1970s, can be fired from the shoulder to destroy aircraft or other missiles.
The Gaddafi regime reportedly used up to 15,000 of these rockets - still much sought after by Al Qaeda and other militant groups.
On Saturday, interim government forces were given the order to destroy the remaining missiles.
Brigadier Mohamed Hassan Hedayah - head of the weapons department in the Libyan National Army - said he wanted to send a tough message.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) HEAD OF THE ARMAMENT DEPARTMENT IN THE NATIONAL LIBYAN ARMY, BRIGADIER MOHAMED HEDAYAH, SAYING:
"This is to show the world that we are strong and able to take such decisions. That we can contribute to the protection of people around the world from danger, and we are committed to destroying such weapons."
Around 400 of the rockets were found in eastern Libya by interim government forces.
They say up to 1000 rockets are still missing.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters