The Marine Corps continues its air campaign against the Islamic State in Libya by the USS San Antonio (LPD-17). The latter took over the USS Wasp (LHD-1) amphibious assault ship the 21 last October.
The 22 ° Marine Expeditionary Unit carried out precision attacks with the AH-1W SuperCobra, the 27 last October, in support of the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA), as part of the Odyssey Lightning operation. The AH-1W provides most of the offensive capabilities of the USMC in Libya, with additional air support guaranteed by the Bell UH-1Y Venom helicopters.
From the bridge of the USS Wasp, in the central Mediterranean, the six fighter jets AV-8B Harrier, four AH-1W Super Cobra and three Bell UH-1Y Venom took off against enemy positions in the Libyan city of Sirte. However, the USS San Antonio can only operate with four attack helicopters. Furthermore, the SuperCobra can carry a lower payload (1150 kg) than the Harrier II (4200 kg) and at a shorter distance.
AFRICOM detects the use of drones, not specifying the type.
(Photo: US Navy)
