Libyan Government Forces Claim LNA Is Using Swiss Rockets, Facts Say Otherwise (Photos)

On July 10, forces loyal to the Government of National Accord (GNA) released photos showing a Swiss SNORA rocket, claiming that it was launched by the Libyan National Army (LNA) at urban areas in the Libyan capital, Tripoli.

The photos indeed show a SNORA 80mm rocket made by Switzerland’s Hispano-Suiza. However, the rocket’s model “RAK 022” is a practice round with no explosive charge.

What raises more questions about the GNA’s accusations is the fact that this type of rockets was in service with rebel forces in the town of Misrata in the early years of the Libyan war. Misrata militias are currently supporting GNA forces.

In 2013, a cargo ship, Letfallah II, was seized in Lebanon for attempting to smuggle weapons, shipped from Misrata, to militants in Syria. U.N. experts found at least six SNOAR RAK 022 rockets aboard the ship.

SNORA rockets found aboard Letfallah II in 2013. Source: broekstukken.blogspot.com

The only other Arab country that is believed to own SNORA rockets is Qatar. Doha is one of the main backers of GNA forces.

These facts raise additional questions about the GNA’s accusations. Last month, GNA forces captured US-made anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and claimed that they were supplied by the UAE to the LNA. However, it was later revealed that they belonged to French forces.

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