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Gulf War

What Happened During the 1991 Dhahran Scud Attack?

Direct Answer

During the Gulf War, an Iraqi Scud missile struck a US Army base in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The missile hit a warehouse used as a barracks for soldiers. It was the deadliest single attack on American troops during the entire war, causing the loss of 28 lives and injuring many others.

Date

February 25, 1991

Location

Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Outcome

Deadliest attack on US forces during the Gulf War

Battle

Dhahran Scud Missile Attack

Quick Facts

Occurred on February 25, 1991
An Iraqi Scud missile hit a US barracks
28 American soldiers were killed
Nearly 100 soldiers were injured
A computer glitch prevented the defense system from working

Countries Involved

United States Iraq Saudi Arabia

Historical Context

The Gulf War began after Iraq invaded its neighbor, Kuwait. Many countries sent troops to Saudi Arabia to help protect the area. The United States and its allies used bases there to launch their missions. Iraqi forces tried to disrupt these efforts by firing missiles into the cities.

What Happened?

On the night of February 25, 1991, an Iraqi Scud missile was launched toward Saudi Arabia. A US defense system was supposed to track and destroy the missile in the air. However, a small computer error caused the defense system to fail. Because of this, the missile hit a building where many US soldiers were sleeping. It caused a massive explosion and destroyed the barracks. Rescue teams worked quickly to help the survivors. This tragic event remains the most lethal attack on American forces during that war.

Why Did It Matter?

This event showed how dangerous modern missile warfare could be for soldiers. It forced the military to improve how they tracked missiles and protected their troops. The loss of life shocked the American public and the military leaders. It remains a sad reminder of the risks faced by service members on the ground.

Forces and Units Involved

Equipment

Scud Missile

Frequently Asked Questions

1What kind of weapon is a Scud missile used during the Gulf War conflict?

A Scud is a tactical ballistic missile originally developed by the Soviet Union. These weapons were used by Iraqi forces to strike targets during the 1991 war.

2On what specific date did the fatal Dhahran missile attack actually occur?

The tragic event took place on the night of February 25, 1991. It occurred during the final stages of the international military campaign to liberate Kuwait.

3How many American soldiers lost their lives during the Dhahran Scud attack?

Tragically, 28 American soldiers were killed in the blast. This incident remains the single deadliest attack on coalition forces during the entire Gulf War.

4Where exactly did the Iraqi Scud missile strike during the 1991 attack?

The missile hit a converted warehouse in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. This building was being used as temporary living quarters for American military personnel.

5Why did the Patriot missile defense system fail to stop the Scud missile?

A software glitch caused a computer clock drift, preventing the system from tracking the missile correctly. This error left the base without any protection.

6What was the main purpose and goal of the 1991 Gulf War conflict?

The Gulf War was an international effort led by the United States to remove Iraqi military forces from Kuwait after they invaded the country in August 1990.

7Were the soldiers warned before the Scud missile struck the warehouse?

No, the soldiers were not warned. Because the defense system failed to detect the incoming missile, there was no alert or time for them to take cover.

8Was the Dhahran strike the only Scud missile fired by Iraq during the war?

No, Iraq launched dozens of Scud missiles throughout the war. These targeted both civilian cities and military sites across Saudi Arabia and even Israel.

9What was the total duration of the main combat phase of the Gulf War?

The primary combat operations of the Gulf War were very swift, lasting for approximately six weeks. The fighting began in January and ended in late February.

10Are there any formal memorials to honor those lost in the Dhahran attack?

Yes, several monuments and memorials exist today to honor the 28 soldiers who died. These sites serve as a way for the nation to remember their sacrifice.