Learning Path: Gulf War 1990–1991

Operational names and campaign phases

In the Gulf War, coalition operations were organized under specific operational names that marked distinct campaign phases. The conflict began with Operation Desert Shield (2 August 1990 – 17 January 1991), a phase focused on deploying and positioning coalition forces in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait and preparing for possible escalation. The main combat phase followed under Operation Desert Storm (17 January – 28 February 1991). This phase included the coalition’s coordinated military campaign to defeat Iraqi forces and liberate Kuwait, culminating in the end of active hostilities and coalition victory. The campaign phases were therefore defined both by their operational names and by the shift from buildup and deterrence to large-scale offensive operations.

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Background and regional context

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