Air Power Becomes Relevant in Libyan Conflict

As the conflict in Libya continues to play out between the Islamist forces of Libyan Dawn and the internationally recognized government based in Tobruk, as well as several other smaller actors with their own objectives, local air assets have become increasingly active. Over the past months, Gen. Khalifa Hifter has expanded operations of his aircraft geographically by operating from different air bases across the country. Libyan Dawn-aligned militias have also demonstrated a capability, albeit limited, to conduct airstrikes. Air power is not the dominant factor in the Libyan conflict, but both sides have demonstrated intent, with some degree of success, to develop this capability to further their military objectives.