Another Centurion in Libya

New images have emerged (via militaryphotos.net) showing for the first time non-AVRE type Centurion main battle tanks in service with Libyan National Transitional Army.  Analysis also provides further indications that Jordan has supplied armoured vehicles to anti-regime forces during the 2011 Libyan civil war.  These new images were reportedly taken in Benghazi in August 2011.

The presence of 105mm main gun in the images indicates this is a later variant than the Centurion Mk.3s that Libya received from the UK in the late 1950s.  A previous article (Centurion AVRE in Libya) highlighted the presence 105 mm Centurion AVRE (Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers ) in Libya, with Jordan identified as a possible supplier.  Whilst AVRE associate features (dozer blade and fascine cradle) may have been removed the presence of large headlight guards would interfere with the operation of these features and therefore this example is not assessed to be another AVRE example.

Jordanian Centurion/Tariq


The raised engine deck suggests this example has been upgraded with AVDS-1790 series diesel engine as featured in M60 Patton tanks.  This engine upgrade was adopted by several Centurion operators.

In the case of Jordan, this upgrade when combined with other less obvious ones, created the Tariq variant of the Centurion tank.  Jordan completed three hundred Centurion conversions to Tariq standard by the mid 1980s.  The distinctive headlight guards seen on this example also appear on the Tariq tank.

A further upgrade, the Tariq II, was considered for some time, but ultimately the Tariq was replaced by an order for the Challenger 1 tanks from the UK in 1999.  Although withdrawn from front line Jordanian service many Tariq hulls went on to be were converted into (Al) Temsah APCs, whilst a small number 105 AVRE (also believed to have been upgraded to Tariq standards) continued to serve in their specialised role.

However considering the presence of this example, it is possible some Tariqs may have been kept in reserve, possibly to serve as spare parts.  The condition of this example which is missing several distinct parts ( including turret stowage boxes and side skirts ), might support this.  If these images were taken in August, as suggested, it is likely that they were received at or around the same time as the AVRE(s) which were first spotted operating in September.   The images also suggest that this example may have been just delivered; Benghazi being a port town and thus providing the most plausible method of delivery, a flatbed tank transporter is being prepared and also the censored photo opportunity presented, possibly between supplier and recipient.


Of potentially significance are the individals present in the photos, particulary the khaki uniformed man displaying military insignia (on the left in both photos).  Although the details of this insignia are unclear the shape and size does appear to potnetial match that of Jordanian Army Officer, most probably of Captain rank.

Related articles:
Centurion AVRE in Libya 

Yemen M113

The government of Yemen received a number of M113 APC via US aid to support internal security and counter terrorist operations.   

An initial delivery of 32 M113 (versions unknown) occurred in 2006 (SIPRI) as part of a US aid package.   Recently leaked diplomatic cables (via Wikileaks) dated late 2008 indicate that the US sought to supply further M113 to Yemen.   However due to lack of available US stocks requests were sent out to other M113 operators in the region to check feasibility and availability for  third party transfers to Yemen.  The outcome of these requests is unknown.


Some sources suggest that Yemen has been an operator of the M113 in large numbers since the late 1970s, however I cannot verify this.

2011 (Arab Spring) Uprising

In late March 2011 at least three individual M113 were deploying to guard the Yemeni Central Bank in Sana’a to counter protesters.

These vehicles had a number of apparent modifications.  In the rear crew compartment three visor blocks were installed on each side, along with firing ports under them.   What appears to be a DSK(M) heavy machine guns has been installed and the associated firing position partial enclosed by protective plating with vision blocks.  Razor/Barbed wire also surrounds the top of the vehicles, a feature seen on some other Yemeni army vehicles during the uprising.

North Yemen Shia Insurgency (2004 -)

A number of Yemeni Government M113 have been either captured or destroyed in recent years during the Shia Insurgency in Northern Yemen, led by the Houthis group (Al-Shabab al Mumin)

The following images have  captured from three seperate videos  (hence the quality) believed taken by the Houthis group:

1.

A captured M113, possibly a very early production model (thin headlight guard), operated by Houthis fighters in 2008.  The banner on the front of the vehicle displays their motto which translates to " God Is the Greatest. Death to America. Death to Israel, a Curse on the Jews.  Victory to Islam ”

2.

An immobilised M113 in 2009.  Houthis fighters again displaying their motto.

3.

M113 found by Houthis fighters having captured Yemeni army base in the mountains in September 2009.

South Yemen insurgency (2009-)

The Yemeni government has also faced violence a further insurgency in the South, relating to a renewed separatism in the form of the "Southern Movement".

Reportedly taken in 2011 in the Southern town of Ja’ar this “Northen Yemeni”(assumed Government) M113 is shown after being reportedly being immobilised by RPG rounds, note the destroyed front left hand drive sprocket, road wheels and track.   Those personnel alive inside surrendered and the vehicle was then totally destroyed.

Any further information or pictures relating to M113s in Yemen would be greatly appreciated.

Libya Khrizantema-S

"National Transitional Council fighters fire against troops loyal to Moamer Kadhafi as they close in on the town of Sirte on October 05, 2011."

A number of photographs reportedly showing anti-Gadaffi forces on 05/10/2011 on the frontline near Sirte show them in possession of a state of the art Khrizantema-S tank destroyer.  This is thought to be one of only three examples delivered to the Libyan Army by Russia prior to the civil war and subsequent UN arms embargo.


The Khrizantema-S is based around the 9K123 missile system which is mounted on a modified BMP-3 chassis.  The main element of this system is 9M123/AT-15 Springer missile. variants of this missile are either laser or radar guided, contain either a tandem HEAT warhead (to counteract tank slat or [explosive] reactive armour) or a thermobaric warhead for unarmoured targets.   This system represents one of the most advanced and capable anti tank systems in operation. It was due to enter service production in 2003/2004 for the Russian Army, however few if any are believed to be in operational service.   Libya is the only known export customer and even this  was not known about until recently.


A useful video demonstrating a [Russian operated]] Khrizantema-S in action, including the various elements being deployed can be found here

The lack of deployed radar might suggest that this missile is being laser guided via a unit on the front of the vehicle, which in the majority of photos appears to be deployed.  However it is worth considering that an unexperienced operator would or could fire it unguided.

In 2009/2010 Russia and Libya agreed a large arms deal, reportedly worth $1.8million (USD).  The exact types and quantities are not fully know although a number of anti-ship missiles and advanced Yak-130 jet trainer/light attack aircraft were believed to be included (SIPRI).  However this lone vehicles is the only clear visual evidence of any modern equipment being actually by Russia delivered prior to the conflict, although smaller arms and ammunition may of gone unnoticed.


Last month a Russian media source reported that three Khrizantema-S had been delivered to Libya (Когда говорят премьеры, пушки молчат / English Translation).  It is unknown how many more were due to be delivered or the fate of the other two units.  Furthermore it is not certain if this vehicle was captured at some other time or place or during the advance to Sirte.  In the case of the latter, it could indicate that loyalist forces have managed to retain/kept back some of their more potent and advanced weaponry.

A T-55 tank firing its main gun with the front of the Khrizantema-S visible in the foreground 

Note that the absence of the missile mounts in this picture is due to the systems retraction and housing within the chassis when not in use or for the purposes of automatic reloading.

Whilst this system provides anti-Gadaffi forces the means to disable any remaining loyalist armour over a long range in open terrain, it is unclear if they appreciate what they have captured or if they have either the technical ability and/or missile rounds available to deploy it to any great effect.

Centurion AVRE in Libya

Recent images from Libya appear to show a Centurion 105 AVRE tank in service with Anti-Gadhaffi forces.

Centurion Tank in El Khanfousa 08/09/2011 (Source: Reuters)

Libya reported received ten Centurion Mk.3 tanks from UK in 1957 (SIPRI).  However the photograph clearly shows the presence of the 105mm main gun, which was only fitted as standard to the Mk.5/2 variant and beyond.  SIPRI has been known to make errors regarding Centurion versions in the past, however in the absence of any historic imagery of Libyan Centurions I am unable to verify this.  (There are historic images of British army Centurions operating in Libya, which should not be confused for actually Libyan army Centurions)

What is apparent is that the Libyan example(s) is an engineer support version, or AVRE (Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers) as it was known in British Service.   At the front is a hydraulically operated multi purpose dozer blade with a fascine cradle mounted just above it (fascine being a bundle of branches or piping often used to bridge a void such as a trench of stream).   The majority of British Centurion AVREs were also fitted with a 165mm main gun for demolition purposes and not designed to engage enemy armour.   However in order to meet demand some frontline Centurions were retro fitted the dozer blade and cradle whilst retaining their standard 105mm gun, sometimes referred to as 105 AVREs.  The pictures available would suggest one of those conversions.

(Source: BBC)

Whilst Centurions AVREs were exported in small numbers to several countries, it is unclear which received the 105 AVRE variant.  The possibility that further conversions occurred specifically for export customers should also be considered.

However due to the long running arms embargo against Libya it seems highly unlikely that this example(s) was exported to the previous Libyan state by the UK, especially given what appears to be a later version of the dozer blade mounted.

Therefore this example(s) was probably supplied direct to Anti-Gadhaffi forces in recent months.  Some observers have suggested that they might be of Jordanian origin, with Jordan believed to be one of the many countries providing equipment to Anti-Gadhaffi forces as well as a long standing operator of the Centurion.  Jordan is reported to have received a total of 355 Centurion tanks over the years (SIPRI), including a dozen Centurion AVREs in 1972, believed to be ex British army examples.

The photo below shows two Jordanian 105 AVREs (or similar) during a recent parade, which clearly shows the similarities to the Libyan example. 

Please note that I am not indicating that Jordan is definitely the supplier, simply that the suggestions made by others is plausible. 

 Related Articles:
Another Centurion in Libya

 

Ugandan M4A1(76)W / M1 Sherman

Ugandan Shermans on parade, date and location unknown.

In the 1960s Israel and Uganda developed a brief but surprisingly close relationship.  Uganda’s location was of value to Israel due to its border with Sudan, an opponent of Israel having sent troops to fight against it during the 1948 war of Independence.  Access to the southern Sudanese border provided Israel a supply route to aid the separatist Southern Sudanese liberation movement and undermine the ruling government.  In return Uganda benefited from Israeli expertise and aid.  This included military advisers and some military equipment.

In 1969 Israel agreed to supply Uganda with 12 WWII era Sherman tanks which were  delivered the following year (SIPRI).  These are believed to be the first tanks ever in Ugandan military service. 

These were all believed to be the M4A1(76)W variant of the Sherman.  Some of these examples had the early suspension (VVSS), whilst others featured the later suspension with wider tracks (HVSS).   In Israeli Defence Force service these would have been collectively known under the designated M1, presumably in reference to the 76mm M1 main gun.  By the late 1960s these M1s had received some minor Israeli modifications, primarily in the form of turret additions.  These included two pairs of smoke dischargers, a search light mounted on the gun mantle and spare track links.  The search light does not however appear to of been fitted to Ugandan examples, though the mounting brackets remain.

 

Within a year of the tanks being delivered Idi Amin seized power in a military coup, the role of the Shermans in this action is unknown.  Although relations with Israel initially remained relatively positive, Idi Amin went onto expelled the Israeli military advisers in 1972.  Some sources suggest this was in direct response to an Israeli refusal for either economic aid or military supplies.  After this Idi Amin became openly hostile to Israel, providing troops to support Egypt and financial aid to other Arab states during the 1973 Yom Kippur war.  The infamous 1976 Operation Entebbe raid would cement the end of Israeli-Ugandan relations for the remainder of Idi Amin’s reign.

1974 Footage

The following series of video captures are taken from 1974 French documentary on Idi Amin.  During this scene he describes how he would retake the Golan Heights from Israel.

This rare footage provides the only colour images of Ugandan Shermans in actual operational service.  They clearly show an overall dark green, perhaps even a bronze green, paint scheme.  Registration numbers appear in white on a black rectangular background and are located centrally on the front and back of the vehicle.  Large painted squares/rectangles split diagonally into green and red are also present on several locations and may represent unit markings.

  

Idi Amin (top left)

Close up of the left side of the turret and Idi Amin (left).  Clearly visible is the Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and spare track links.  The smoke dischargers are believed to be of French origin and look identical to those on AMX-13, which Israel also operated.  Note also the addition of a more modern radio antenna.

 

The rear view of the vehicle shows an unknown marking on the right fender, possible a further unit badge or insignia.

A different example with HVSS and wider tracks.  Two spare track links are also visible on the side of the hull.

 Retirement

There is limited information about the operational history of Ugandan Shermans and it is unknown when they were withdrawn from service.  It is believed that at least some were involved in 1979 Uganda-Tanzania War also known as Liberation War, where Tanzanian forces and Libya exiles removed Amin from power.  Some derelict example(s) seen on the roadside near the capital Kampala are reportedly from this conflict.

Additional it should be remembered that these were already old vehicles when they entered Ugandan service, therefore maintenance and spares may have reduced serviceability.  Additionally although these may have been Uganda’s first tanks they were not to be their last.  Following the deterioration of relations with Israel, Uganda switched suppliers receiving more modern tanks such as 50 PT-76 light amphibious tanks and 16 T-54 main battle tanks between 1974-75 from the USSR.  A small number (~ten) of WWII era T-34/85 were also delivered, probably from Libya (SIPRI).  Other armoured vehicles were procured during this period. 

An Australian serviceman, part of the Commonwealth military training team stands infront of seemingly out of service HVSS Sherman in Kampala 1983.

(Source http://www.awm.gov.au)

 

The following two photographs were taken by David Blumenkrantz (http://www.daveblumenkrantz.com) and used with his permission.  Taken in 1987 they show a derelict HVSS Sherman on a road North of Kampala.  Although in black and white there is some evidence to suggest a two tone disruptive camouflage scheme, although this could be result of exposure to the elements or some creative post service painting by locals.  Unfortunately there are no colour originals and the photographer cannot recall the what colour(s) it was painted.

Copyright David Blumenkrantz (http://www.daveblumenkrantz.com)

Copyright David Blumenkrantz (http://www.daveblumenkrantz.com)

 

The next two images appear to show the same derelict example as before, albeit later than David’s 1987 captures.  Although there are some inconsistencies between the images the elapsed time might account for such changes.

Any further information regarding Ugandan Shermans would be greatly appreciated.

Libya (National Liberation Army) M577 Command Vehicle

A photograph has recently emerged from Libya showing a modified M577 command vehicle operated by National Liberation Army/Rebel forces.  The date and location are unstated although judging from the time of circulation it may relate to the battle for Tripoli.

 

The M577 is a [tactical] command vehicle based on the M113 APC and easily identified by the heightened crew compartment.

The presence of an M577 in Libya is somewhat of a revelation as it was never a known operator of this specific type.  However Libya was known to be a user of the base M113  APC as discussed in this earlier article: http://esotericarmour.blogspot.com/2011/05/libya-m113.html 

Analysis of the image also suggests that this is a very early M577.  This conclusion based upon the thinner headlight guard and the visible weld seams where the chassis has been modified.  This would support the idea that it was probably imported from the US at the same time as the M113s.  However it remains unknown how many examples were received or how many were still operational when the civil war broke out.

The circumstances of the capture of this vehicle are also unclear, although some M113s were known to of seized relatively early on in the conflict their serviceability was questionable and there was no evidence that they were ever put into rebel service.

This M577 has been modified by it’s new operators by adding a turret from a BMP-1, housing a 73 mm 2A28 ‘Grom’ low pressure smoothbore semi-automatic gun.   It is unknown if the turret has been simply welded in place or the turret ring fitting to allow it to be traversed (turned) manually.

The most obvious place for it to be fitted would be above the commanders hatch allowing access and operation of the gun from beneath as designed.  It should be noted that this hatch aperture is quite far forward on the vehicle roof so some further modification to accommodate the turret may be required.  However even if the turret/gun is not fully functional its visible addition to a relatively lightly armoured and armed vehicle such as the M577 could act as a valuable deterrent.

The vehicle has also received a rather unsubtle new paint scheme replicating the flag adopted by the National Transitional Council, which itself is a resurrection of the flag used by the Kingdom of Libya between 1951-1969, prior to the coup that saw Gaddafi come to power.

Any further information or photographs regarding this or other M577s in Libya would be greatly appreciated as would a translation of the Arabic text on the side of the vehicle.

Libya (National Liberation Army) / Qatar Ratel 20

Footage reportedly taken on 31/07/2011 in Benghazi was recently broadcast by an unknown television station and shows  a Ratel 20 IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) operating in Libya.   

Libya was not known to be an operator of the South African made Ratel 20 and it was quickly noted on the discussion forums of www.militaryphotos.net that this vehicle had the flag of Qatar painted on the side.  Qatar was also not thought to be an operator of this type, although South African arms export customers are not always openly disclosed.

Some observers have interpreted this footage as evidence that Qatar has deployed forces on the ground in support of the National Liberation Army (rebels) .  However upon closer inspection of the footage I have identified the additional presence of the National Liberation Army/National Transitional Council flag which suggests Qatar were likely the suppliers rather than the current operators.

Qatar and National Liberation Army/National Transitional Council flag visible on the front left of the Ratel 20

The supply of an IFV to the National Liberation Army is potentially controversial.  It is also interesting that no attempt has  been made to hide its origins, especially as Qatar may be in breach of the end-user certificate with South Africa in supplying them to a third party.

One should consider that although produced as an IFV there is evidence that the vehicles prime weapon; a turret mounted 20mm semi-automatic cannon, has been removed and it is unclear if the coaxial 7.62mm machine gun is still present.  This would therefore reduce the its capability and could limit it to the APC (armoured personnel carrier) role as it can carry atleast seven personnel in addition to the standard crew.

20mm semi-automatic gun barrel comparison

Youtube video of the television footage.  The Ratel is first visible between 07:33 - 07:46 and then again at approximately 08:05.  This footage sequence is repeated later in the broadcast.

UPDATE: 29/08/2011 

Another photograph has emerged of a Ratel 20 in Libya.  Although only a partial view of the top of the vehicle, the turret is unmistakeably that of a Ratel 20.  The apparent removal of the main 20mm armament, as discussed previously, has been addressed by the addition of a ZPU-1 AA gun.  This gun has seen widespread use in the Libya civil war often being mounted to the rear of pick up truck technicals.  It remains unknown how many Ratels were delivered to the National Liberation Army or if this is the same one featured in earlier footage.

ZPU-1 with standard AA mount, welded on top of  the stowage rack of Ratel 20.  The effectiveness of this addition beyond  long range suppressive fire may be compromised due the obstructive positioning behind the turret and the obviously vulnerable position of the gunner.

UPDATE: 29/08/2011

Another day and yet another photograph of a Ratel 20 in Libya.  This photograph was reportedly taken on or before 24/08/2011 in relation to the battle from Tripoli and clearly shows the turret of a Ratel 20..  This example has been modified with the addition of a russian made UB-16-57UMP rocket pod housing S-5 unguided rockets.  This pod is normally mounted on aircraft and no doubt taken from captured Libyan Air force stocks.

A Libyan rebel poses on rocket pod mounted above the turret of a Ratel 20.  The rocket pod is a believed to be a UB-16-57UMP, the 16 referring to the number of rockets and the 57 referring the diameter (mm) of the launch tubes.  Also apparent is the removal of the 20mm gun barrel normally fitted to this variant.

UPDATE: 03/09/2011


Further footage has emerged courtesy VOA (Voice of America) News showing what appears to be the modified Ratels mentioned in the previous two updates.  Note the apparent absence of the Qatar or NTC flag.

Youtube video of original broadcast:

Libya Maz-543 TEL Scud-B

Libya received a total of 288 SS-1C Scud-B  (R-17) missiles from the former Soviet Union along with 72 Maz-543 TEL (9P117 Uragan) designed specifically to deploy these missiles.  Libya has also sought to acquire further Scud missiles through other means and sources.  This article covers both the Maz-543 TEL and associated Scud missiles in Libyan Service.

Maz-543 TEL Scud-Bs during a 2009 parade in Tripoli celebrating the 40th anniversary of the military coup that brought Libyan leader Gaddafi to power.

The Scud-B is a tactical ballistic missile that entered service with the USSR in 1964 and like most ballistic missiles of that era it's lineage owes much to German V2 missiles captured after WWII.  It is capable of carrying a large 985kg warhead to a range of around 300km.  However by modern standards it is very inaccurate with a CEP (Circular Error Probability) of 450m.  This means that only an estimated 50% of missiles will impact within a 450m radius of their intended target.  As well as conventional high-explosives it was also deigned to be capable of carrying a nuclear or chemical warhead, where accuracy would be less of a concern. 


In Libyan Service 

In 1975 Libya ordered 27 Maz-543 TELs and 108 Scud-B missiles, with deliveries completed the following year.  This was to be followed up with a second larger order in 1980 consisting of 45 TELs and 180 missiles (SIPRI.org).  This equates to an initial one to four ratio of launchers to missiles.

Following the 1986 US airstrikes on Libya at least two Scud-Bs were launched in retaliation at the Italian Island of Lampedusa, where a USGC (United States Coast Guard) navigation station was based.  All missiles failed to hit the 20.2km island and landed harmlessly in the sea.

Maz-543 TEL Scud-Bs during a 1999 parade in Tripoli celebrating the 30th anniversary of the military coup that brought Libyan leader Gaddafi to power.

 Due to the deteriorating international relations and consequent arm embargos Libya sought to maintain and enhance its ballistic missile capabilities from other sources, often covertly. 

One such source was North Korea who produced their own copy of the Scud-B called the Hwasong-5. North Korea also developed the Hwasong-6 (Scud-C), whereby in exchange for a slightly reduced warhead (~800kg) the range was extended to 700km.  The accuracy was also greatly improved, with a CEP of only 50m claimed. 

Libya is believed to of acquired a small number of Hwasong-6, possible only five, in the late 90s.  These missiles retained the same dimensions as the Scud-B and therefore their integration with the Maz-543 TEL platform would have been feasible.

In 1999 and 2000 there were a number of interceptions of missile parts that were believed to be destined for Libya, often mislabelled automotive parts in order to escape detection.  One such interception involved a North Korean flagged freighted stopped by the Indian authorities.  It contained not only missile parts but also machine tools and detailed plans for the  Scud-B (Hwasong-5) and Scud-C (Hwasong-6).  It is therefore likely that Libya intended to setup domestic production of these missiles.  The initial small batch of Hwasong-6 were probably for reverse engineering and research purposes only. 

Although these interception provide an insight it fails to provide a comprehensive view of Libya’s Scud missile program.  It remains unknown how many parts or complete missiles did make it to Libya from North Korea or from other sources, nor Libya’s own domestic capability to maintain and increase it’s scud missiles inventory. 

There are also uncorroborated reports that some  Libya Maz-543 TEL may have been transferred to Iran, which produces it's own Scud-B (Shahab-1) and Scud-C (Shahab-2) variants.

Disposal plans

On 19/12/2003, following secret talks with the US and UK, Libya formally renounced its pursuit of WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) and agreed to dismantle any current capabilities. This included any missile with a range of over 300km and payload of over 500kg that could be used as a potential WMD delivery system.  

The Scud-B with a 300km range was therefore excluded from this agreement but recent wikileaks documents show arrangements for their disposal followed.  They also indicate delays in this process stemming from Libya’s unwillingness to retire the system without US approval and possible assistance in procuring a suitable [non WMD] replacement, Libyas first choice being the Russian SS-26 Stone (9K720 Iskander), the export (E) variant falling within the 300km, 500kg limit.

In 2005 Libya reportedly offered to sell all 417 Scud missiles to the US for $2m USD a piece. It is unknown how accurate the 417 figure was nor if it may have included other ballistic missiles beyond the Scud-B and/or any Scud-Cs.

The picture below, reportedly taken in 2007 indicates Libya still maintained some operational capacity regardless of any planned disposal process.  A number of Maz-543 TEL Scud-B were also displayed during a 2009 parade in Tripoli.

Libyan M-543 TEL launching a Scud-B, during a joint military exercise with Algeria in 2007. (AFP/Getty Images)

 Libya Civil War

It is unknown how many Maz-543 TEL Scud-Bs were operational at the start of the civil war. Whilst there has been rumours that Libyan forces have used Scud missiles against rebel/national liberation army forces these remain unconfirmed.  There could also be some confusion with other Libyan army systems such as the Frog-7 missiles and the widespread use of the term “Scud” to generically describe any type of large surface to surface missile.  The accuracy of the Scud-B would also limit it’s effectiveness in such a conflict and would likely strengthen NATO/Western resolve if used in urban area.  Additionally, due to their range, they would be kept way back from the front and thus not been widely seen or captured on camera.

Libya’s Scud capability has however been targeted by NATO forces, including a strike by the RAF on 05/05/2011 where a large number of scud canisters (30-40) were reportedly destroyed at a site South of Sirte.

At least one Maz-543 TEL Scud-B potentially fell into rebel hands during the fall of Benghazi. Google Earth images indicate a military base to the South of the city centre where there is indications of Maz-543TEL Scud-B activity here between 2004-2009.

Three Maz-543 TEL Scud-B seen at a military base in Benghazi in 2009, images of the same base in 2007 and 2004 show various numbers of these vehciles in different positions. (Google Maps )

  

The photographs below were taken on 22/02/2011.  The exact circumstances of this scene are unclear but the vehicle would appear to be stuck in the mud, possibly abandoned by retreating Libyan forces.

Maz-543 TEL Scud-B photographed in Benghazi on 22/02/2009.  "Direction of Artillery and Missiles"  badge is visible on the side.  Note the kitchen sink in the foreground!

Sunken tread marks are visible some distance behind vehicle, suggesting it unidentionally dug itself in . Recent evidence of wheels spinning in mud, bricks under the wheels and tow rope show the unsuccessful efforts to rescue the vehicle.

Although the vehcile shows some signs of superficial damage this could of been simply vandalism after it had been abandoned. However any damage that could of been inflicted since the photos could render the vehicle unusable operationally.

The fate of this vehicle after these photographs were taken is unknown.

It remains to be seen if either side will use such a missile system as the civil war continues.