The Libyan Rebel Air Force, instrumental in toppling the regime of Colonel Muammar Gadhafi, will have four less planes as from Saturday after the Spanish Minister of Defence, Carme Chacón, announced the withdrawal of four Spanish F-18’s from missions within Libya.
The Defence Minister announced that the four planes will return to Spain on Saturday although they would remain ‘available’ should the need arise.
The Minister cited the fact that most of the country is now in rebel control and that airports are opening up once more and the number of civilian flights is increasing.
Other Spanish units, such as two refuelling planes, a frigate and maritime patrol aircraft will continue their presence in Libya. A Spanish submarine, however, will cease patrols off the Libyan coast.