Norway has given approval for its six F-16 fighter jets to take part in the no-fly zone operation over Libya, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg told parliament Wednesday.
The fighter jets were for the time being "to be under the US North Africa command," Stoltenberg specified, as fresh reports suggested that the military alliance NATO was soon to take charge of the overall command, dpa reported.
Stoltenberg said the cabinet decision had the full backing of his three-party coalition, rejecting suggestions that the Socialist Left Party opposed placing the jets under US command.
The six fighter jets arrived late Monday at a base on the southern Greek island of Crete.
"We want a broad coalition of countries, that is broader than NATO but that can utilise NATO resources," Stoltenberg said.
The premier also noted that there was strong support in parliament for Norway to take part in the operation.
Defence Minister Grete Faremo has notified the head of defence to transfer command of the jets. On Monday, Faremo said clear rules of engagement were needed before the Norwegian fighter jets could be deployed.
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