By IANS/EFE,
Madrid : Spanish aircraft have joined the military operation in Libya, the defence ministry has said.
Two F-18 fighters and a Boeing-707 refuelling plane took off from the Decimomannu airbase in southern Italy Monday, the ministry said.
The Spanish submarine Tramontana also sailed from its base at Cartagena to join the international mission, naval officials said. The three Spanish aircraft will perform air-patrol missions as part of the imposition of a no-fly zone over Libya, the defence minister said in a communique.
The UN Security Council approved a resolution authorising the use of force to protect civilians in Libya from attacks by troops loyal to long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Spain has deployed four F-18s and the refuelling plane to assist in enforcing the no-fly zone.
The Spanish jets will operate under the command of the international coalition, currently led by US Gen Carter Ham.
Spanish frigate Mendez Nunez, along with the submarine Tramontana and a C-235 maritime surveillance aircraft, will also join NATO forces to impose the embargo on Libya.
Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero will appear Tuesday before parliament to request authorisation for the armed forces to take part in the Libyan mission.