3D tech deployed in Libyan conflict

A 3D surveillance technology the UK has been using in Afghanistan is playing a role in the efforts to keep tabs on the forces of Libyan leader Colonel Moammar Gadhafi, reports The Wall Street Journal.

Analysts for the UK's Royal Air Force Tactical Imagery Wing for the past two years have been using 3D imaging, relayed from Tornado attack jets 4 500 metres above the ground, to gather pictures and information about what is happening on the ground in Afghanistan's Helmand province.

The images provide a much clearer view than do conventional pictures of such things as improvised explosive devices and movements by enemy forces.

MyFox reveals that the Tornados carry Reconnaissance Airborne Pods, known as Raptors, whose electro-optic sensors record film that is downloaded from the aircraft.

The pictures, in 2D and 3D, then are evaluated in a tiny room at Kandahar airport, where analysts gather around a screen, wearing glasses similar to those used to watch hit 3D movies.

The analysts are a small part of a vast coalition effort against the Taliban and its improvised explosive devices, which have been responsible for the majority of coalition casualties in Afghanistan.

By offering depth, the 3D images help gauge the height of compound walls and potential obstacles, such as laundry lines. The images also are used by military units to help plan raids on Taliban compounds.

Meanwhile, Gaddafi's better-armed and organised troops reversed the rapid westward advance of rebels on Tuesday as world powers meeting in London piled pressure on the Libyan leader to step down, according to Reuters.

A conference of 40 governments and international bodies agreed to press on with a Nato-led aerial bombardment of Libyan forces until Gaddafi complied with a UN resolution to end violence against civilians.