When did Operation Desert Shield begin?

When did Operation Desert Shield begin?

• A. 1986
• B. 1988
• C. 1990
• D. 1992

Answer: (B)

Operation Desert Shield marks the United States–led coalition’s buildup to defend Saudi Arabia after Iraq invaded Kuwait. The buildup began in August 1990, with forces flowing into the region and deployed to deter further Iraqi aggression. August 7, 1990 is commonly cited as the kickoff date for the operation. Dates from 1986 or 1988 belong to the Iran-Iraq War era and precede the Kuwait invasion, while 1992 comes after Desert Shield had transitioned into Desert Storm, the combat phase that began in January 1991. Understanding the sequence helps: Desert Shield laid the groundwork for the later combat operations of Desert Storm.

Operation Desert Shield marks the United States–led coalition’s buildup to defend Saudi Arabia after Iraq invaded Kuwait. The buildup began in August 1990, with forces flowing into the region and deployed to deter further Iraqi aggression. August 7, 1990 is commonly cited as the kickoff date for the operation. Dates from 1986 or 1988 belong to the Iran-Iraq War era and precede the Kuwait invasion, while 1992 comes after Desert Shield had transitioned into Desert Storm, the combat phase that began in January 1991. Understanding the sequence helps: Desert Shield laid the groundwork for the later combat operations of Desert Storm.