Militants targeting helicopters in Iraq killed-U.S.

BAGHDAD, Mar 3 (Reuters) A US air strike killed senior insurgents suspected of targeting American helicopters in Iraq, the US military said today.

In a statement, the military said the attack took place yesterday north of Baghdad near the town of Taji, which is home to a major US air base. It said weaponry, including a vehicle mounted with anti-aircraft artillery, was destroyed.

''Coalition Forces believe key terrorists were killed during the air strike ... Intelligence reports indicated this network is responsible for threats to coalition aircraft,'' the statement said, without elaborating.

The statement said more information would be released later.

Insurgents have shot down eight helicopters since January 20 in Iraq, killing a total of 28 people, mostly soldiers. Six of those helicopters were US military aircraft and two belonged to a private American security firm.

US commanders say those responsible for the downings are being hunted. They have said insurgents appeared to be targeting helicopters to undermine a new security crackdown in Baghdad that began last month.

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