October 22 Scud missile attack

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R-17 Elbrus Scud missile

== October 22 Scud Missile Attack ==

The October 22 Scud missile attack was a significant event during the Gulf War in 1991. This attack involved the launch of a Scud missile by Iraq targeting the city of Dhahran in Saudi Arabia. The incident is notable for its impact on both military operations and civilian morale during the conflict.

Background

The Gulf War began in August 1990 when Iraq invaded Kuwait. In response, a coalition of countries led by the United States launched Operation Desert Storm in January 1991 to liberate Kuwait. During the conflict, Iraq employed Scud missiles as a strategic weapon to target coalition forces and their allies.

The Attack

On October 22, 1991, Iraq launched a Scud missile aimed at the city of Dhahran, a key logistical hub for coalition forces. The missile struck a warehouse used by the U.S. Army, resulting in significant damage and casualties. The attack highlighted the threat posed by Iraq's missile capabilities and underscored the need for effective missile defense systems.

Casualties and Damage

The Scud missile attack on October 22 resulted in the deaths of 28 U.S. soldiers and injuries to nearly 100 others. The warehouse, which contained military supplies and equipment, was heavily damaged. The incident had a profound effect on the morale of coalition forces and underscored the vulnerability of rear-area installations to missile attacks.

Aftermath

In the wake of the attack, coalition forces intensified their efforts to locate and destroy Iraq's Scud missile launchers. The incident also led to increased emphasis on the development and deployment of missile defense systems, such as the Patriot missile system, which was used to intercept incoming Scud missiles during the conflict.

Legacy

The October 22 Scud missile attack remains a significant event in the history of the Gulf War. It demonstrated the strategic use of ballistic missiles in modern warfare and highlighted the importance of missile defense systems. The attack also served as a reminder of the human cost of war and the need for continued vigilance in protecting military personnel and assets.

See Also

• Gulf War
• Scud missile
• Operation Desert Storm
• Patriot missile
• Dhahran