Italian authorities seized Chinese military drones destined for Libya in the port of Gioia Tauro. The drones, falsely labeled as parts for wind turbines, were intercepted following a tip-off from the United States. The operation violated the United Nations embargo on arms shipments to Libya.
Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been divided into two factions, each with its own administration and armed forces. The seized containers will be scrutinized to identify the network responsible for the arms shipment.
In a separate incident, two former United Nations employees in Canada were involved in a conspiracy to sell Chinese-made drones and military equipment to Libya in exchange for shipments of Libyan oil. This conspiracy took place during their time at the United Nations, where they had diplomatic immunity.
Chinese and Turkish drones have played a significant role in the conflict in Libya, with unmanned aerial vehicles being the primary tool used in air warfare. The use of drones has transformed the dynamics of the conflict and highlighted the changing nature of modern warfare.
The Wing Loong drones, provided by the UAE, have a combat range of up to 1,500 kilometers and played a decisive role in previous battles in Libya. Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones, introduced in response to the escalation, effectively disrupted enemy logistics and carried out localized attacks.
The different capabilities of these drones serve the strategic roles of the conflicting factions in Libya. The Wing Loong II provides the LNA with mission flexibility for long-range strikes and reconnaissance, while the Bayraktar TB2 meets the needs of the GNA by disrupting enemy logistics and carrying out localized attacks.
Overall, the use of UAVs in Libya has not only transformed the conflict but has also demonstrated the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of drones in modern warfare. Their precision and operational flexibility make them indispensable assets in strategic operations, influencing tactical outcomes on the ground.
Article Source
https://www.eurasiantimes.com/us-intel-busts-chinese-military-drones-headed/
