First time Scud used in ongoing Libyan conflict
Forces loyal to Col. Moammar Gadhafi launched a Scud missile at rebel positions for the first time in Libya’s ongoing conflict, according to U.S. officials. They allege the missile was meant to strike the rebel-held city of Brega, but instead it landed harmlessly in the desert. The missiles have a range of about 800 kilometres and can carry a one-tonne warhead. Gadhafi’s military is said to possess at least 200 Scud missiles. The decision to launch one comes as rebel forces continue to advance on Gadhafi’s stronghold in Tripoli. Rebels seized two towns within 100 kilometres of the capital Monday in a bid to bolster their ability to control access to the town.