Mission #8:  
April 15. Stand guard against incoming missiles as friendly aircraft begin
their bombing runs over Tripoli and Benghazi.

Background:  By 0200 hours, F-111s and A-6s were ready to bomb their 
targets over Tripoli and Benghazi. They were, however, operating with two 
major constraints. The strict Rule of Engagement laid down by (Vice 
Admiral) Kelso limited their options. Only single runs were permitted, and
only if all equipment was in proper working order. The targets had to be 
positively identified as the correct site using several different systems.
This was to avoid civilian casualties. The Libyan air defense system 
provided the other constraint. Once activated, this system was capable of 
enormous fire power of ZSU-23 artillery fire and SA-2, SA-3, SA-6, SA-8, 
and French Crotale missiles.

Mission #9:  
April 15:  Assist friendly aircraft in destroying the Bab-al-Aziziyya 
complex and two training complexes and academies.

Background:  Two F-111s made their bombing run over the Bab al-Aziziyya 
complex, each releasing four two-thousand-pound laser-guided "smart" 
bombs. The bombs inflicted heavy damage to the complex. Three F-111s flew 
over military targets west of Tripoli, near Sidi Bilal. The "smart" bombs 
were dropped on a pair of training complexes and two academies. All four 
targets received direct hits.
