How far did the Invasion of Iraq of 2003 reflect modern warfare?

Learning objective – to be able to identify the significance of the Invasion of Iraq of 2003. I can describe the key changes and continuities shown in the Invasion of Iraq. Grade 3 I can explain the key changes and continuities shown in the Invasion of Iraq. Grade 6 I can explain and assess changes and continuities shown in the Invasion of Iraq. Grade 9

Why did the Invasion of Iraq take place in 2003? The Invasion of Iraq – codenamed Operation Iraqi Freedom – aimed to depose the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. It was feared Hussain was developing Weapons of Mass Destruction – which included nuclear and chemical weapons – that may support terrorists in the West. This invasion was part of US President, George W. Bush’s ‘War on Terror’. This invasion was an example of asymmetrical and guerrilla warfare in the modern world. A Coalition force of mainly USA and UK troops fought a smaller Iraqi army, who had outdated weapons.

What strategy did the Coalition forces use in Iraq? The Coalition forces used ‘Shock and Awe’ tactics – which was the reliance of overwhelming superiority in weapons to dominate the enemy. The strategy came in three stages – After extensive aerial surveillance of Iraq, particularly of key missile sites and defences, Iraqi leaders and defences were bombed and special forces entered Iraq to take observation posts and gas and oil terminals. This was followed by two months of air attacks on a daily basis where mainly ‘smart’ weapons were used to target key sites, such as Baghdad. At the same time, a ground attack was launched where 200,000 Coalition troops targeted capturing key cities, supported by aircraft, tanks and heavily artillery. It took 21 days for the key cities to be taken.

What weapons were used in the Invasion of Iraq? The invasion was dominated by hi-tech weapons – F-117 aircraft – stealth fighter-bombers undetectable by radar. Used alongside Tornado 44 bombers. Paveway bombs - ‘smart’ bombs although 60% of those dropped missed their target. Storm Shadows – Guided by laser beams or GPS guidance – the main form of cruise missile used. Challengers – the main UK tank used in the invasion. Predator drones – unmanned planes used for intelligence and bombing purposes. Satellites – The Coalition forces used 50 satellites to guide and deploy forces and weapons.

Why was the initial invasion a success? The first stage of the invasion in 2003 was a success for two reasons – Better weapons and improved technology – Even though the Iraqi army was larger, its weapons were outdated. For example, the Iraqi tanks to weak and could not resist shells fired from a Challenger tank. Government spending – The Coalition had the money and desire to outspend the Iraqi government on weapons.

Why did the Coalition snatch defeat from the jaws of victory? The Invasion of Iraq took 21 days but it took a further eight years to establish a new Iraqi government. Local unofficial militia groups did not accept Coalition troops in Iraq and launched a series of guerrilla attacks on them. These attacks included hit and run attacks, suicide bombings and destroying water supplies. These guerrilla forces used the knowledge of the terrain to great effect to which Coalition forces had no real answer. Eventually, Coalition casualties during the guerrilla campaign exceeded those of the actual invasion itself. This alongside declining public support for the continuation of the war in Iraq led to Coalition forces withdrawing without achieving total victory.

Task – complete the table to evaluate the nature and features of the Invasion of Iraq Evidence from the Invasion of Iraq Weapons Composition of the armies Experience of civilians

Task Gather evidence from what you have learned about the Invasion of Iraq to show how far it was – Asymmetrical War Guerrilla Warfare Explain the following terms – Shock and Awe Weapons of Mass Destruction

Plenary – My Brain Subheading – My Brain Draw an outline of your brain. Fill your drawn brain with all the things you have learnt in this lesson. This can be in the form of key words, drawings, bullet points, lists – anything you like so long as it summarises your learning and that others can understand it.