Apache UK to join the mission of the Libya

 Apache helicopter is prized by the troops due to its hardiness and versatility The UK sends four Apache attack helicopters to the mission in Libya, after approval by the Prime Minister.

They allow faster attacks on a wide range of smaller targets in urban areas.

Apache helicopters, normally based at Wattisham, Suffolk, should go into operation within days.

Downing Street, said Col Kadhafi is "on the run" and hopes for the deployment of the Apaches can help to deliver the final blow to the NATO mission.

Intelligence is said to show that the Libyan leader moves between hospitals in the region of Tripoli in the belief that it is the only way that it will be safe, and officials believe that the regime could be starting to "break".

Apache helicopters and their pilots, who are part of the Air Corps, are currently on exercise in the Mediterranean.

Was speculation on the move since Monday, after the France said it would deploy French Tiger helicopter and the UK would send to Apache.

The final decision on their deployment was with David Cameron, who earlier Thursday had requested more information on possible risks, while he was en route to the Summit of the G8 in France.

Political Chief Editor BBC Nick Robinson, said that the Prime Minister is determined that the deployment will not be seen as a desperate attempt to unblock military but rather as an example of the United Kingdom turn the heat on the regime.

Continue reading the main story  crew: 2 main weapon: 16 missiles, anti-tank Hellfire length: 17.76 m (58 ft transplant) Rotor span: mineral m (48 feet) cruise speed: 161 km (259) range: 334 537 km mission Max duration: 2 h 45 min

Source: AugustaWestland

More than two months after he ordered the military action, Mr. Cameron has taken a decision that he knows is full of risks, our correspondent adds.

The deployment of the Apaches in Libya means there is less chance of civilian casualties in the operations which are currently based on the use of aircraft Tornado and Typhoon.

But the Apaches could be targeted themselves that they operate at low altitude and Libyan forces loyal to Col. Qaddafi still have access to thousands of surface-to-air missiles.

The deployment has been discussed at a meeting of the Council of national security to Downing Street, the United Kingdom Thursday.

1973 Of the UN Security Council resolution authorized air strikes to protect Libyan civilians from attacks by forces loyal to Col. Qaddafi.

The vote of the United Nations followed the violent repression of demonstrations against the regime of colonel Gaddafi and strikes against the forces of Col. Gaddafi in support of rebels began March 19.