Why is the operation desert storm important?

Answer 1

Only that it was a quick and clean victory and elated the American people that had only known defeat (Vietnam) for so many years. DS finally united (Vietnam had divided the nation) the American people again (According to the press and President Bush Sr...e.g. his speech during the parades for returning US servicemembers). DS also allowed, FOR THE FIRST TIME, the combat testing of the M1 Abrams MBT (Main Battle Tank), some Stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, and associated smart weapons.

Answer 2

1. It validated US weapon technology; M1 Abrams MBT's, Bradley IFV's, Hummers, AH-64 Apache aircraft, Tomahawk Cruise Missiles, Patriot Surface to Air Missiles, Intelligent (smart) guided missiles/bombs, Blackhawk utility helicopters, GPS navigation systems, F117 Stealth aircraft, personel body armor, etc.

2. It also tested US tactical doctrine at the time; air/land battle. A concept designed to fight the Soviet Union during World War III. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1990, and the end of the cold war; that concept was no longer valid; but it was tested anyway. It should be noted for future historians however, that air/land battle was created to do battle with a competent opponent such as the former Soviet Union. As reality quickly unfolded during that short military campaign (less than 60 days, January thru February 1991) the enemy demonstrated that they clearly did NOT HAVE THE MEANS NOR DETERMINATION TO OFFER RESISTANCE TO THE US/COALITION. Meaning, that the air/land battle concept was not truly (accurately) tested; and any findings/actions based upon the result of Operation Desert Storm could prove to be faulty...with disasterous results for US or former coalition members.

In other words, air/land battle worked against the Iraqis, but that does not mean it could have worked against a more determined or capable foe.

3. Desert Storm accomplished it's objective. Removal of Iraq from Kuwait.