The General Command of the Libyan Armed Forces has announced the return of several fighter jets to service following comprehensive maintenance and preparation works at Benina Airbase.
According to a statement published by the General Command’s Security Units Staff, the announcement came during an inspection visit by Lieutenant General Khaled Haftar, Chief of Staff of the Security Units, to review ongoing operations and readiness at the airbase.
During the visit, Khaled Haftar met with several Air Force officers, non-commissioned officers, and technicians. He inspected the operational readiness of the aircraft and stressed the importance of maintaining high combat readiness levels to ensure the jets are always prepared for any assigned missions.
The statement added that Lt. Gen. Haftar praised the dedication and professionalism of Air Force personnel across all technical and operational divisions, commending their efficiency and strong sense of duty in serving national objectives.
The move comes as part of ongoing efforts by the Libyan General Command to bolster the country’s military capabilities and ensure the air fleet remains operational and mission-ready.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
