Norway terminating air support in Libya. Concern over sustainability issues.

Norway has dropped approximately 370 bombs on targets in Libya to date, flying so many missions that it was beginning to run out. Government tripartite Coalition Party the Socialist Left (SV) has also expressed fears the campaign could become drawn out.

“It is important Norway continues to contribute, but we must expect understanding from our allies that having such a small air force means we cannot maintain such a large fighter jet contribution over time,” Minister of Defence Grete Faremo said Friday.

The announcement means up to four of Norway’s six F-16s will remain until 01 August, and the government has informed Parliament it will be seeking an extra 100 million kroner to cover the costs.

Defence Ministers agreed at this week’s NATO meeting to continue Operation Unified Protector also decided NATO will be ready to support any post-Gaddafi operation if they are requested.

“Norway will take over the Chair of the Contact Group from Denmark. Participation will give us a good opportunity to exert influence on the over all international effort in Libya, even after the military operations are completed,” said Minister Faremo.