operation daguet pdf

Operation Daguet⁚ Overview

Operation Daguet, codenamed “Operation Brocket,” was France’s contribution to the 1991 Gulf War, encompassing both ground and air operations. It involved significant French military deployment, representing the second-largest European contingent in the coalition forces. The operation aimed to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, and involved considerable coordination with US-led coalition forces.

Dates and Context

Operation Daguet commenced in August 1990, mirroring the timeline of Operation Desert Shield. This period saw the build-up of coalition forces in preparation for potential military action against Iraq following its invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990. The operation officially concluded with the cessation of major hostilities in the Persian Gulf War in early 1991. Operation Daguet’s timeframe coincided with significant geopolitical shifts, marking the end of the Cold War and a period of evolving international relations. The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, a violation of international law, triggered an international response, ultimately resulting in the deployment of a multinational coalition, with France playing a substantial role.

Participating Units and Location

Operation Daguet involved a substantial deployment of French military forces, primarily centered around the 6th Light Armored Division (Division Daguet). This division, comprising approximately 12,000 personnel, formed the core of France’s ground contribution. The operation also included significant air power, deploying approximately 40 Jaguar and 30 Mirage fighter aircraft. These air assets were primarily stationed at Al-Ahsa air base in Saudi Arabia. Naval units also participated, though their specific composition and roles within Operation Daguet require further research. The primary operational location was the Persian Gulf region, with the ground component operating on the left flank of the US XVIII Airborne Corps, primarily within Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The French forces operated in close coordination with other coalition partners.

Division Daguet⁚ Ground Operations

Division Daguet’s ground operations focused on securing Al-Salman airbase and protecting the left flank of the coalition forces. Their actions involved deep penetration into Iraqi territory and direct engagement with enemy positions. Close cooperation with US forces was a key element of their success.

Deployment and Mission

Division Daguet, the French ground force contribution to Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, was deployed to Saudi Arabia in September 1990. Its primary mission was twofold⁚ to secure the left flank of the US XVIII Airborne Corps, thereby safeguarding the coalition’s western border, and to capture the strategically vital Al-Salman airbase deep within Iraqi territory. This airbase, located approximately 100 miles inside Iraq, posed a significant threat to the coalition’s advance, and its seizure was deemed crucial for overall operational success. The division’s deployment involved a substantial logistical undertaking, transporting thousands of personnel and heavy equipment over vast distances. The mission involved both offensive and defensive operations, requiring adaptability and close coordination with allied forces. The success of Division Daguet’s deployment and execution of its mission contributed significantly to the overall victory of the coalition.

Al-Salman Airbase Capture

The seizure of Al-Salman Airbase stands as a key achievement of Operation Daguet’s ground operations. Positioned approximately 100 miles into Iraqi territory, this airbase presented a significant threat to the coalition’s left flank. Division Daguet, operating alongside the US 82nd Airborne Division, launched a swift and decisive offensive to secure the base. The operation involved a rapid advance, overcoming Iraqi resistance and securing the facility within 48 hours. This rapid success was due to effective coordination between French and American forces, leveraging combined arms tactics and superior firepower. The capture of Al-Salman Airbase not only neutralized a potential Iraqi counter-offensive but also provided a valuable forward operating base for the coalition. The strategic importance of this airbase, combined with the speed and efficiency of its capture, solidified Division Daguet’s contribution to the overall success of Operation Desert Storm.

Operational Cooperation with US Forces

Operation Daguet’s success hinged significantly on the close operational cooperation between French and US forces. Division Daguet, the French ground component, was placed under the operational command of the US XVIII Airborne Corps. This integration facilitated seamless coordination during crucial phases of the ground campaign, most notably during the advance into Iraq and the capture of Al-Salman airbase. Joint planning and execution of maneuvers ensured efficient resource allocation and maximized battlefield effectiveness. The combined strengths of both armies – American logistical prowess and French tactical expertise – proved mutually beneficial. This collaboration extended beyond the ground campaign, with French air assets integrating into the broader coalition air operations. The shared intelligence and combined fire support significantly enhanced the overall operational efficiency and contributed greatly to the successful conclusion of Operation Desert Storm. The close coordination exemplified a successful model of multinational cooperation in a large-scale military operation.

Operation Daguet⁚ Air Operations

Operation Daguet’s air component played a crucial role, involving significant numbers of Mirage and Jaguar fighter aircraft. These aircraft, operating from Al-Ahsa airbase, conducted numerous combat missions, contributing to the overall success of the coalition air campaign during the Gulf War.

Aircraft Involved

Operation Daguet’s air power was a significant component of the French contribution to the Gulf War. The operation primarily involved two key aircraft types⁚ the Mirage and the Jaguar. These combat jets formed the backbone of the French air campaign, undertaking numerous missions over Iraq and Kuwait. Specific numbers vary depending on the source, but reports suggest approximately 40 Jaguar and 30 Mirage aircraft were deployed. These aircraft were responsible for a wide variety of missions, ranging from reconnaissance and ground attack to air-to-air combat and strategic bombing. The deployment of these aircraft showcased the capabilities of the French Air Force in a large-scale international conflict, emphasizing their technological prowess and operational effectiveness in a high-stakes environment. Supporting these main combatants were undoubtedly other aircraft types providing logistical and reconnaissance support, though specific numbers and types are less readily available.

Air Base of Operations

The primary airbase utilized by the French Air Force during Operation Daguet was Al-Ahsa airbase, located in Saudi Arabia. This strategically important location served as a crucial staging ground for the French air campaign, providing a vital forward operating base for the deployment of Mirage and Jaguar fighter jets. The base’s proximity to the conflict zone in Iraq and Kuwait facilitated rapid response times and efficient logistical support for the French air assets involved in Operation Daguet. Al-Ahsa’s infrastructure, including runways, maintenance facilities, and support infrastructure, played a critical role in enabling the sustained air operations conducted by the French. While other bases may have been used for specific missions or logistical purposes, Al-Ahsa remained the central hub for the French air effort throughout the operation, highlighting its importance in the overall success of the French air campaign. The selection of this base underscores the importance of strategic planning and logistical considerations in the effective execution of military operations.

Aerial Combat Missions

Operation Daguet’s air component executed a wide range of aerial combat missions throughout the conflict. French Mirage and Jaguar fighter jets undertook numerous sorties, conducting air-to-ground attacks against Iraqi military targets, primarily focusing on infrastructure and armored units. These missions played a significant role in weakening Iraqi forces and supporting ground operations. Close air support for friendly ground troops was a crucial element, ensuring the protection and effectiveness of the advancing coalition forces. Furthermore, the French Air Force participated in strategic bombing campaigns targeting Iraqi command and control centers. Reconnaissance missions were also conducted to gather vital intelligence on Iraqi troop movements and positions, providing crucial information for effective targeting and operational planning. The effectiveness of these combined air operations contributed significantly to the overall success of the coalition campaign to liberate Kuwait. Detailed records of these missions are likely documented in official reports and historical analyses of Operation Daguet.

Operation Daguet⁚ Legacy and Impact

Operation Daguet significantly impacted French military doctrine and international relations. It showcased French military capabilities and solidified its role within NATO and international coalitions. The operation also spurred reflection on the challenges of long-range deployments and the importance of interoperability.

Casualties and Losses

Operation Daguet resulted in casualties and losses for the French forces. While precise figures vary across different sources, it’s established that at least ten French soldiers lost their lives during the operation. Numerous others sustained injuries, the exact number remaining somewhat uncertain due to inconsistencies in reporting. These losses highlight the inherent risks of military engagement, even within a broader coalition effort. The impact of these losses extended beyond the immediate operational context, shaping public perception of the war’s cost and influencing subsequent military planning. The experience served as a valuable lesson in the unpredictable nature of combat and the need for thorough risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Further research into official military records and historical archives could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the full extent of casualties and losses suffered by French forces during Operation Daguet. This information remains crucial for accurate historical accounts and future military operational assessments.

Geopolitical Significance

Operation Daguet held significant geopolitical implications, demonstrating France’s commitment to international coalitions and its continued military prowess on the world stage. Participation solidified France’s role as a key player in maintaining global security, particularly within the context of the post-Cold War era. The operation showcased the effectiveness of combined military operations, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing global conflicts. France’s involvement in the liberation of Kuwait reinforced its standing as a major European power with global influence. Operation Daguet also underscored the evolving nature of warfare, emphasizing the importance of technological superiority and strategic planning in achieving military objectives. The success of the operation contributed to the strengthening of France’s alliances and its influence within international organizations focused on peace and security. It further served as a demonstration of France’s military capabilities, enhancing its credibility and international standing. The geopolitical ramifications extended beyond the immediate conflict, impacting future foreign policy decisions and shaping the nation’s role in subsequent international interventions.

French Military Experience

Operation Daguet provided invaluable experience for the French military, testing its capabilities in a large-scale, high-intensity conflict far from home. The operation highlighted the logistical challenges of deploying and sustaining a sizable force over an extended period in a demanding environment. French troops gained practical experience in combined arms operations, coordinating effectively with allied forces from different nations. The experience underscored the importance of robust communication and interoperability among diverse military units. The operation’s success demonstrated the effectiveness of French military training and equipment in a real-world scenario. Lessons learned regarding logistics, communication, and combined arms warfare were incorporated into subsequent military doctrines and training programs. Operation Daguet also provided valuable insights into the psychological and physical demands of prolonged deployments in challenging conditions. This knowledge enhanced the French military’s understanding of troop welfare and the importance of comprehensive support systems for deployed personnel. The operation’s impact on French military thinking and doctrine is still felt today, shaping the nation’s approach to future military engagements.