Expert: No-fly zone may not halt Gadhafi offensive
By Associated Press
Mar 8, 2011 5:30 AM CST

Military experts say a potential no-fly zone over Libya would have little impact on Moammar Gadhafi's use of attack helicopters against rebel forces and civilians.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies launched its annual report on military might Tuesday. It says Libya's military has around 35 attack helicopters.

Experts claim the methods used to enforce restrictions against jets often struggle to pick out small and slower moving helicopters.

Europe and the U.S. are tentatively examining plans for a possible no-fly zone, though no decision has yet been made to introduce a resolution at the U.N. Security Council.

The think tank's data, accurate to November, estimates Libya's army had 76,000 active troops and 40,000 militia reserves.