The UK is to send helicopters to Libya following similar announcements by France. Britain and France are to deploy attack helicopters against Libya in an attempt to break the military stalemate, particularly in the important coastal city of Misrata, security sources have told the Guardian. In a significant escalation of the conflict, the Apaches – based on HMS Ocean – will join French helicopters in risky operations which reflect deepening frustration among British and French defence chiefs about their continuing inability to protect civilians. Apaches, which are being used in counter insurgency operations in Afghanistan, can manoeuvre and attack small...