Division Daguet

Division Daguet. It was the principal French ground force contribution to the international coalition during the Gulf War in 1990–1991. Formed specifically for Operation Daguet, the French codename for their participation, the division played a crucial role in the Battle of Khafji and the subsequent ground campaign to liberate Kuwait. Its rapid deployment and successful operations alongside U.S. and other coalition forces marked a significant moment in modern French expeditionary warfare.

History

The division was rapidly constituted in the autumn of 1990 following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait and the authorization for the use of force by the United Nations Security Council. Under the overall command of General Michel Roquejeoffre, the force was assembled from units across the French Army, drawing heavily on the rapid-reaction capabilities of the Force d'Action Rapide. Its formation and deployment to Saudi Arabia via air and sea lift demonstrated France's commitment to the international coalition led by the United States. The division's history is intrinsically linked to the diplomatic and military planning between Paris and Washington, D.C., particularly within the framework of Operation Desert Shield.

Organization and structure

The division was a composite force built around a core of light armored and airmobile units. Its principal maneuver element was the 6th Light Armoured Division, which provided the headquarters and core units, including the famed Foreign Legion regiments like the 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment. Key components included the 1st Spahi Regiment equipped with AMX-10 RC armored cars and the 3rd Marine Infantry Regiment. Aviation support was provided by helicopters from the French Army Light Aviation, such as the Gazelle and Puma. The structure integrated French Air and Space Force elements for close air support and logistics units to sustain operations in the harsh Arabian Desert.

Operations and deployments

Initially deployed to Saudi Arabia, the division was tasked with securing the coalition's left flank. Its first major combat engagement was the Battle of Khafji, where it provided critical artillery and reconnaissance support to Saudi and Qatari troops. During the ground campaign of Operation Desert Storm, Division Daguet executed a deep advance into Iraq, capturing the strategic As-Salman Airfield and neutralizing Iraqi divisions. This maneuver, conducted in coordination with the U.S. XVIII Airborne Corps, protected the main coalition thrust into Kuwait and cut off enemy lines of retreat along the Euphrates River valley.

Equipment and capabilities

The division fielded a mix of wheeled armor and light vehicles suited for desert maneuver warfare. Its primary firepower came from the AMX-10 RC reconnaissance vehicle and the ERC 90 Sagaie armored car. Anti-tank capabilities were enhanced by Milan and Eryx missile systems. Artillery support was provided by the TRF1 155mm howitzer. Mobility relied heavily on the VAB armored personnel carrier and P4 light vehicles. The Aérospatiale Gazelle helicopters, often armed with HOT anti-tank missiles, provided vital armed reconnaissance and scout capabilities across the vast battlefield.

Legacy and significance

Division Daguet's performance validated French concepts of rapid expeditionary deployment and joint operations with NATO allies, particularly the United States Armed Forces. The experience directly influenced subsequent French military reforms and equipment procurement, leading to greater emphasis on power projection and interoperability. The operation strengthened Franco-American military relations post-Cold War and demonstrated France's ability to conduct high-intensity warfare far from its national territory. The division's success is commemorated in French military history and contributed to the evolution of the Commandement des Opérations Spéciales and modern joint command structures.

Category:Military units and formations of the Gulf War Category:Divisions of France Category:Expeditionary units and formations of France