About this Unit
**SOP Desert Storm** was a specialized operational planning unit formed in late 1990 in preparation for Operation Desert Storm, the combat phase of the Gulf War. Tasked with developing and refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for coalition forces, the unit coordinated tactics, logistics, and joint operations among U.S. and allied military branches. Their meticulous planning contributed to the swift and decisive victory over Iraqi forces in early 1991. After the success of Desert Storm, the unit's methods were studied and adapted for future multinational operations.
Historical Facts
• Special Operations Perspective: SOP (Special Operations Platoon) Desert Storm was a codename sometimes used to refer to special operations units deployed during Operation Desert Storm, the combat phase of the Gulf War in 1991.
• Coalition Special Forces: SOP Desert Storm involved elite units from multiple countries, including the US Army's Delta Force, Navy SEALs, British SAS, and French Commandos, working together for the first time on such a large scale.
• Scud-Hunting Missions: One of the primary missions of SOP units was to locate and destroy Iraqi Scud missile launchers, which threatened coalition forces and neighboring countries.
• Behind Enemy Lines: Special operations teams often infiltrated deep behind Iraqi lines to gather intelligence, designate targets for airstrikes, and disrupt enemy communications.
• The Bravo Two Zero Patrol: The British SAS Bravo Two Zero patrol, tasked with hunting Scuds, became famous after several members were killed or captured, leading to books and movies about their ordeal.
• Operation Sabre: US Navy SEALs carried out Operation Sabre, a high-risk mission to clear Iraqi mines and obstacles from Kuwaiti beaches in preparation for a possible amphibious landing.
• Psychological Operations: SOP units used loudspeakers, leaflets, and radio broadcasts to convince large numbers of Iraqi soldiers to surrender, often with minimal fighting.
• First Use of GPS in Combat: Desert Storm marked the first widespread use of GPS devices by special operations units, greatly enhancing their navigation and coordination capabilities.
• Rescue Missions: Special operations teams conducted daring rescue attempts, such as the unsuccessful search for downed F-15E pilot Lt. Col. David Eberly and the successful rescue of other coalition aircrews.
• Legacy: The experience and lessons learned by SOP units during Desert Storm influenced the development of joint special operations command structures and tactics used in later conflicts such as Afghanistan and Iraq.
