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24/7 Search for OBL
U.S. forces searching for al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden along the mountainous border between Pakistan and Afghanistan will soon implement high-tech surveillance tactics in the region, enabling them to monitor the area 24 hours a day, seven days a week, CNN has learned. Itâs believed that the constant surveillance of the border region and the "squeeze play" by U.S. and Pakistani forces surrounding the mountainous frontier will present the best chance ever to net the worldâs most-wanted terrorist, who has eluded capture since U.S. troops launched a search for him in late 2001.Among the devices that will be in place within days are U-2 spy planes flying at 70,000 feet, taking pictures, using radar and intercepting communications. Unmanned Predator drones, flying closer at 25,000 feet, are equipped with cameras that can spot vehicles and people and special radar that can operate through clouds. Some of the Predators may also carry Hellfire missiles. Ground sensors may also be placed along mountain passes to listen for vehicles. Data from the planes and sensors will be sent via satellite to analysts for quick action. The U.S. military has bought up satellite transmission capacity in the region, to ensure it can respond quickly. But none of the measures are being acknowledged officially. "Of course youâve heard and seen in the press that Osama bin Laden is surrounded, we have him cornered and we know where he is, etc., etc. And of course, we donât know that," said Gen. John Abizaid, commander of the U.S. Central Command, in an interview with PBSâ Jim Lehrer. . . . But, he said, "I think that we will make it very painful for al Qaeda between now and the end of the year." Happy hunting, boys. Iâd like to see OBLâs head mounted over the fireplace in the White House--that would make a good campaign ad for GWB. Posted by: sludj 2004-03-04 |
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