Operation Daguet, France’s military contribution to the 1991 Gulf War, involved air and ground campaigns to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, conducted between January and February 1991.
Overview of the French Military Contribution
France’s military contribution to the Gulf War, known as Operation Daguet, involved a significant deployment of forces to support the liberation of Kuwait. The French Army formed the Daguet Division, comprising 12,000 troops, 500 armored vehicles, and 132 helicopters, primarily from the 6th Light Armoured Division and reinforced by elements of the 9th Marine Infantry Division. Led by General Michel Roquejeoffre, the division played a key role in both air and ground campaigns. French aircraft, including Jaguars and Mirage jets, conducted ground attacks and air cover missions, while ground forces swiftly captured strategic objectives like Rochambeau and As Salman, achieving their goals within 48 hours. This demonstrated France’s military effectiveness and commitment to the coalition effort.
Historical Context of the Gulf War
The Gulf War arose from Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990, prompting a UN-led coalition to intervene, marking a pivotal post-Cold War conflict.
The Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait and the International Response
The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990, led to a swift international condemnation. The United Nations Security Council passed multiple resolutions, including Resolution 660, demanding Iraq’s withdrawal and authorizing economic sanctions. When Iraq failed to comply, a coalition of 35 nations, led by the United States, launched Operation Desert Storm in January 1991. This military intervention aimed to liberate Kuwait and restore regional stability. The international response was marked by a significant military buildup in Saudi Arabia, known as Operation Desert Shield, which preceded the active hostilities. This collective action underscored the post-Cold War era’s emerging global security dynamics.
Formation and Structure of the Daguet Division
Formed in September 1990, the Daguet Division combined France’s 6th Light Armoured Division with elements of the 9th Marine Infantry Division, totaling 12,000 troops and 500 armored vehicles under General Michel Roquejeoffre’s command.
Units and Command Structure
The Daguet Division was primarily composed of the 6th Light Armoured Division, reinforced by elements of the 9th Marine Infantry Division. It included marine infantry, armoured cavalry, artillery, engineering, and logistical support units. General Michel Roquejeoffre commanded the division, ensuring coordinated operations across its diverse components. The division’s structure allowed for rapid deployment and adaptability in the desert environment. Units were transported from France to Saudi Arabia, with troops and equipment arriving in stages. This diverse force demonstrated France’s military capabilities and its commitment to the international coalition, playing a key role in the liberation of Kuwait.
Military Operations During Operation Daguet
Operation Daguet involved French air and ground campaigns, commencing with airstrikes in January 1991 and ground operations on February 24, swiftly securing key objectives in Iraq.
Air Campaign: Role of the French Air Force
The French Air Force played a pivotal role in Operation Daguet, conducting airstrikes and reconnaissance missions. Jaguar aircraft carried out ground attacks with precision, while Mirage F1 and Mirage 2000 jets provided air cover. Despite initial concerns about Iraqi Mirage F1s, French aircraft achieved air supremacy without losses. The air campaign supported coalition efforts, targeting Iraqi positions and infrastructure, ensuring the success of subsequent ground operations. French pilots demonstrated skill and adaptability, contributing significantly to the liberation of Kuwait.
Ground Campaign: Objectives and Key Battles
The ground campaign of Operation Daguet began on February 24, 1991, with the French Daguet Division advancing northward into Iraqi territory. Their primary objective was to liberate Kuwait by securing strategic locations. The division rapidly captured key positions, including Rochambeau and As Salman, achieving their goals ahead of schedule. Despite encountering mines and explosives, which injured 23 soldiers, the French forces successfully neutralized Iraqi resistance. Over 3,000 Iraqi soldiers surrendered, highlighting the effectiveness of the French ground operations. The swift and decisive actions of the Daguet Division played a crucial role in the liberation of Kuwait, showcasing France’s military capabilities in the coalition effort.
Challenges Faced by French Forces
French forces encountered logistical difficulties, environmental challenges, and the threat of chemical warfare during Operation Daguet, requiring adaptability and rigorous training to overcome these obstacles effectively.
Logistical Difficulties and Environmental Factors
The French military faced significant logistical challenges during Operation Daguet, including the transportation of troops and equipment across vast desert distances. Environmental factors such as extreme heat and sandstorms impacted operations, requiring specialized equipment and protection. Additionally, the threat of chemical warfare necessitated constant preparedness, with soldiers conducting frequent drills and wearing protective gear. Despite these obstacles, the French forces demonstrated resilience and adaptability, ensuring the success of their mission within the coalition framework.
Geopolitical Impact of Operation Daguet
Operation Daguet reinforced France’s role in the post-Cold War era, showcasing its ability to operate within a US-led coalition and strengthening its global influence.
France’s Role in the Post-Cold War Era
Operation Daguet marked a significant turning point for France in the post-Cold War era, demonstrating its ability to operate within a US-led coalition. The operation underscored France’s commitment to collective security and its willingness to project power beyond European borders. By participating in the Gulf War, France reinforced its position as a key global actor, aligning with the emerging international order dominated by the United States. The success of the operation highlighted France’s military capabilities and strategic independence, reinforcing its influence in international affairs. This involvement also paved the way for future French contributions to multinational operations, solidifying its role as a major power in the new world order.
Equipment and Tactics Employed
French forces utilized Jaguar aircraft for ground attacks, Mirage fighter jets for air superiority, and AMX-10 RC armored vehicles. Tactics emphasized rapid deployment and mobile operations.
Weapons and Strategies Used During the Operation
The French military employed a range of weapons and strategies during Operation Daguet. Jaguar aircraft conducted ground attacks with laser-guided missiles, while Mirage F1 and Mirage 2000 jets provided air superiority and reconnaissance. Armored units utilized AMX-10 RC vehicles for mobility and firepower. Gazelle helicopters supported ground forces with precision strikes. The strategy focused on rapid deployment and surprise, leveraging light and mobile assets to outmaneuver Iraqi forces. French troops executed decisive ground campaigns, securing key objectives like Rochambeau and As Salman within 48 hours. Air and ground operations were tightly coordinated, ensuring minimal casualties and swift liberation of Kuwaiti territory.
Legacy and Aftermath of Operation Daguet
Operation Daguet marked France’s strategic role in post-Cold War geopolitics, strengthening its international influence. A defense agreement with Kuwait followed, and commemorative events honored the mission’s success and sacrifices.
Long-Term Consequences and Commemoration
The success of Operation Daguet reinforced France’s role as a global military power and solidified its commitment to international security. Post-conflict, France signed a defense agreement with Kuwait in 1992, enhancing bilateral ties. Commemorative events, such as the 30th-anniversary ceremony in 2021, highlighted the mission’s significance. Veterans and their families were honored, ensuring the operation’s legacy endures. The French military’s effectiveness in desert conditions and coordination with coalition forces underscored its adaptability and strength. These outcomes underscored the importance of international cooperation in achieving strategic objectives, leaving a lasting impact on France’s foreign and defense policies.