While the Independence Day military parade was on in Colombo, there had been heavy exchanges between the army and the LTTE on the Mullaitivu front.

The LTTE struggling on the eastern flank had gathered a force large enough to launch a multi-pronged counter attack on the army.

The SLAF had launched 13 missions in support of the 59 Division and Task Force IV since Tuesday night to thwart the LTTE offensive.

SLAF spokesperson Wing Commander Janaka Nanayakkara told The Island that jets and helicopter gunships had targeted LTTE reinforcements, gatherings and strong points. According to him, Kfirs, MiGs and F7s had carried out nine missions and the No 9 Attack Helicopter Squadron four by 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

Responding to our queries, he said that jets launched one mission at 11.20 a.m. amidst the celebrations in Colombo, he said.

The army said that the LTTE had been trying to breach its frontline west of Mullaitivu lagoon since Sunday (February 1). Fighting had continued for 72 hours before the army stabilized the situation, the military said.