Gulf War 1990–1991 Learning Path

Operational names and campaign phases

In the Gulf War, “operational names” refer to the specific code-names used to organize and label major phases of the coalition’s military effort against Iraq. The conflict is commonly divided into two principal operational phases: Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Operation Desert Shield began on 2 August 1990 and covered the initial period of coalition deployment and preparation after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Operation Desert Storm followed from 17 January to 28 February 1991 and represented the main combat phase, when coalition forces launched large-scale air and ground operations to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. These operational labels help distinguish the transition from buildup and deterrence to active offensive operations, and they frame how events such as the air campaign, ground campaign, and the end of active hostilities are understood within the broader campaign timeline.

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Background leading to the invasion

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