Friday, December 19, 2008

Sri Lanka War News Updates -- Dcember 19, 2008

From Strategy Page:

Weeks of fighting around the LTTE capital of Kilinochchi has led to several thousand casualties. Troops are attacking LTTE bunkers five kilometers outside the town. As expected, the LTTE have some of their best remaining fighters operating here. But the LTTE is fighting under many disadvantages. The air force controls the air, and the pilots are now experienced at hitting ground targets. The army has far more artillery than the LTTE, and much more ammunition.

Meanwhile, the 59th division keeps moving up the east coast, giving the LTTE less and less coastline for their smuggling boats. More portions of the A-9 highway (which runs up the center of the island) is being captured by troops. The LTTE is being pressed on over a dozen fronts. While clearly on its last legs, the LTTE appears determined to go down fighting. Given how thinly stretched the LTTE forces are, a complete collapse could come at any time. The army is still wary of a last-ditch counter-offensive, even though several deadly LTTE local counter-attacks have been repulsed recently. Having been beaten up by the LTTE several times over the last two decades, the generals remain cautious. The army knows it will win, and wants to do so with as few casualties as possible.

Read more ....

More News On The Sri Lanka War

Sri Lanka Govt. says no Xmas ceasefire with LTTE -- The Hindu
Sri Lankan air force bombs rebels -- AP
Sri Lanka steps up air attacks against Tiger rebels -- AFP
LTTE terror: a retreat on all fronts -- Daily News (Sri Lanka)
Sri Lanka claims capture of rebel fortifications -- AP
Heavy fighting in Sri Lanka kills 145-military -- Reuters

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