Libya Apache deployment approved by David Cameron

The Apache helicopter is prized by troops because of its hardiness and versatility

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The UK is sending four Apache attack helicopters to the mission in Libya, after approval by the prime minister.

They will allow for swifter attacks on a wider range of smaller targets in urban areas.
The Apache helicopters, normally based at Wattisham, in Suffolk, are expected to go into operation within days.
Downing Street says Col Gaddafi is "on the run" and hopes the deployment of the Apaches can help deliver the final blow in the Nato mission.
Intelligence is said to show the Libyan leader is moving between hospitals in the Tripoli area in the belief that it is the only way he will be safe, and officials believe the regime might be beginning to "fracture".
The Apache helicopters and their pilots, who are part of the Army Air Corps, are currently on exercise in the Mediterranean.
There had been speculation about the move since Monday after France said it would be deploying French Tiger helicopters and the UK would be sending Apaches.
The final decision on their deployment rested with David Cameron, who earlier on Thursday had requested more information about possible risks, while he was en route to the G8 Summit in France.
BBC political editor Nick Robinson says the prime minister is determined that the deployment will not be seen as a desperate attempt to break military deadlock but instead as an example of the UK turning up the heat on the regime.

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Apache AH Mk1

• Crew: 2
• Main weapon: 16 Hellfire anti-tank missiles
• Length: 17.76m (58ft 3in)
• Rotor span: 14.63m (48ft)
• Cruising speed: 161mph (259km/h)
• Range: 334 miles (537km)
• Max mission duration: 2h 45min

Source: AugustaWestland

But more than two months after he ordered military action, Mr Cameron has taken another decision which he knows is fraught with risks, adds our correspondent.

The deployment of Apaches in Libya means there will be less chance of civilian casualties in operations that currently rely on the use of jets alone.
But the Apaches could be targeted themselves as they operate at lower altitudes and Libyan forces loyal to Col Gaddafi still have access to thousands of surface-to-air missiles.
The deployment was discussed at a meeting of the UK's National Security Council at Downing Street on Thursday.
It is two months since UN Security Council Resolution 1973 authorised air strikes to protect Libyan civilians from attacks by forces loyal to Col Gaddafi.
The UN vote followed the violent suppression of protests against Col Gaddafi's regime and military strikes against Col Gaddafi's forces in support of the rebels began on 19 March.