Unusual air traffic has been recorded in Gulf skies in recent hours with the takeoff of at least 20 American refueling planes from various bases in the region. The planes are circling airspace between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, an activity that indicates preparations for long-range missions by the fighter jets participating in "Project Freedom." The massive presence of the refueling array at one point reflects peak alertness ahead of extensive operational activity in international shipping lanes.
