c1900 - Present - The Iraq War, 2003 Flashcards
How was high tech warfare used?
The Coalition used high-tech weaponry and surveillance techniques: their strategy was ‘CISR’ - command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. For example, remote-controlled drones kept the pilots themselves at a distance from the action.
Strategy of coalition forces
- preparing the battlefield- f-117 fighter bombed iraqi leaders while missiles were launched at bases and special forces went in
- air raids - two months of daily, targetted bombing with smart weaponary
- ground attack - 200000 ground troops captured key cities with heavy artilerry etc
Use of computerised weaponry
F-117 stealth fighter-bombers are undetectable by radar. Britain’s main aircraft was the Tornado.
They were used to deliver ‘smart’ bombs:
• Paveway bombs are ‘smart’ bombs, guided using lasers and satellite guidance (GPS).
• Storm Shadows are cruise missiles launched from aircraft, guided by ground operatives using cameras installed on the missile.
Aerial surveillance techniques
- Directed by pilots from the ground via cameras, drones were used for reconnaisance and bombing missions
- Satnet 4, the UK satellite network over Iraq, was used to intercept Iraqi communications (also provided real time pictures of the ground and early warnings of Iraqi attacks)
Initial outcome of Iraq war
The coalition defeated Iraq’s army in 20 days.
They had advanced weapons technology which easily dealt with Iraq’s outdated weapons such as the 1958-model T-55 tank.
Long term outcome of Iraq War
The coalition had to withdraw 8 years after defeating Iraq’s army because of guerilla fighters who employed hit and run raids and suicide attacks. These tactics caused thousands of casualties and sapped morale. Total victory was never achieved.
What was the coalition made up of?
UK and US forces
