Officials: US not involved in initial Libya action

Two U.S. officials say American ships and aircraft are poised for military action against Libya, but they aren't participating in the initial French air missions over the North African nation.

One U.S. official says the Navy is planning a sea-launched missile attack from the Mediterranean against elements of Libya's coastal air defenses.

Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of military operations.

One official says the U.S. intends to limit its involvement - at least in the initial stages - to helping protect French and other air missions by taking out Libyan air defenses.

The official says that depending on how Libyan forces respond, the U.S. could launch additional attacks in support of allied forces.