U.S. warplanes and drones have conducted almost 60 airstrikes in support of Libyan troops fighting the Islamic State in and around the northern coastal town of Sirte.

The latest release from U.S. Africa command, which is conducting the strikes at the request of, and in coordination with, the Libyan Government of National Accord, listed multiple targets that were attacked Tuesday, including almost 20 "fighting positions."

Forces loyal to the fledgling unity government say they believe they are close to retaking the city, which has been a Islamic State stronghold since last year.

The battle to liberate Sirte has been going on for three months, but the U.S. airstrikes began Aug. 1, and so far total 57 strikes.