IRAQ ADVANCES IN ANTI-AIRCRAFT DEVELOPMENT

ABU DHABI [MENL] -- Iraq has fired what is being termed a newly-developed ground-to-air missile that uses Baghdad's expertise in ballistic missile technology.

The Iraqi missile test took place on July 2 near the Kuwaiti border. Western defense sources said the launch was that of an improved surface-to-air missile.

The missile is said to be aimed at U.S. and British warplanes that patrol the no-fly zones in northern and southern Iraq. The test was that of a missile improved with Iraqi ballistic technology.

The launch was reported on Sunday by the Kuwaiti daily Al Rai Al Aam. The newspaper said the Iraqi test would be followed by deployment of the new missile against allied warplanes.

Last week, President Saddam Hussein convened his air force commanders for an update on efforts to upgrade Iraq's air defense sysystems. Iraqi officials said Saddam ordered the air force and military industry to focus on means to repel allied warplanes from Iraqi air space.

http://www.menewsline.com/stories/2001/july/07_10_4.html

-- Martin Thompson (mthom1927@aol.com), July 09, 2001