Operation Secret Squirrel, officially named Operation Senior Surprise, was one of the most pivotal and classified military missions conducted by the United States Air Force during the Gulf War. Launched on January 16, 1991, this top-secret operation marked the first combat use of GPS-guided cruise missiles by the U.S. military.
The mission involved seven B-52G Stratofortress bombers from the 596th Bomb Squadron flying nonstop from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana to launch air-launched cruise missiles at high-value targets in Iraq. Spanning over 35 hours and covering more than 14,000 miles, it was the longest combat mission in aviation history at the time.
The moniker “Secret Squirrel” was adopted informally by the aircrews, inspired by the undercover cartoon squirrel character and chosen to maintain secrecy in daily conversation.
The success of Operation Secret Squirrel demonstrated the global reach and precision strike capabilities of the U.S. Air Force, laying the foundation for modern air warfare tactics.
The mission remained classified for a year and was publicly acknowledged only in 1992. This operation’s impact reverberates through military strategy, showcasing the blend of technology, precision, and endurance that defines contemporary combat missions.
What Was Operation Secret Squirrel?
1. Historical Background and Strategic Context
The geopolitical tension that led to Operation Secret Squirrel began in August 1990, when Iraq invaded Kuwait. This act of aggression was met with international condemnation and prompted the United States to initiate Operation Desert Shield, aimed at deterring further Iraqi expansion. As diplomatic efforts failed, the U.S. and its coalition partners transitioned to a combat-ready posture under Operation Desert Storm.
To initiate hostilities and weaken Iraqi capabilities, military strategists needed a high-impact, low-risk operation that would disable key infrastructure without requiring immediate ground troop involvement. This is where Operation Secret Squirrel came into play. The goal was to neutralize Iraq’s command and control centers, communication lines, and power grids through precision strikes from afar.
This mission also marked the transition from conventional warfare to precision-guided munitions, emphasizing low collateral damage and surgical accuracy. The introduction of GPS-guided cruise missiles allowed the U.S. to deliver pinpoint strikes deep within enemy territory without the need for conventional air raids or boots on the ground.
2. Planning, Secrecy, and Preparation
Planning for Operation Secret Squirrel began months before the official launch. The operation was strictly need-to-know, and only a small group of aircrew and support personnel were briefed on the mission’s objectives. Even families of the involved airmen were unaware of the operation’s specifics.
The 596th Bomb Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base became the central hub for preparation. All personnel involved underwent intense training that included long-duration flight simulations, aerial refueling operations, and missile programming. The bombers were retrofitted with new software and hardware systems necessary to launch the then-unproven AGM-86C Conventional Air-Launched Cruise Missiles (CALCMs).
Operational security was paramount. All mission briefings took place behind closed doors, and personnel were instructed to refrain from discussing any mission details. The use of the term “Secret Squirrel” allowed for indirect reference to the mission without breaching security protocols.
3. Aircraft and Weaponry Used
The B-52G Stratofortress was the aircraft of choice for Operation Secret Squirrel. Known for its durability, range, and payload capacity, the B-52G was ideally suited for the long-range precision strike mission. Each bomber was capable of carrying multiple cruise missiles and could be refueled mid-air, a necessity for the 14,000-mile journey.
The AGM-86C CALCMs were the highlight of the operation. Developed as a conventional version of the nuclear-armed AGM-86B, these missiles were equipped with GPS guidance systems and high-explosive warheads. They allowed the U.S. to strike targets with unprecedented accuracy, minimizing collateral damage while maximizing operational effectiveness.
Each of the seven bombers carried up to eight CALCMs. The missiles were pre-programmed with target coordinates and launched in succession over the Arabian Peninsula. Once released, the CALCMs flew autonomously to their designated targets in Iraq, maintaining low altitudes to avoid radar detection.
4. Execution of the Mission
On the night of January 16, 1991, seven B-52Gs took off from Barksdale Air Force Base under radio silence and in total darkness. The bombers ascended into the night sky, beginning their journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Aerial refueling was conducted over the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea using KC-135 and KC-10 tanker aircraft.
The mission required a tightly coordinated flight path involving four in-flight refuelings. The bombers passed through airspace over the Azores, Spain, and the Red Sea, eventually reaching launch positions over Saudi Arabia. From there, the cruise missiles were deployed with precision.
Despite mechanical challenges and turbulent weather, all seven aircraft successfully launched their missiles. A total of 35 cruise missiles were fired, 31 of which reached their targets. The B-52s then turned around and retraced their flight path back to Louisiana, completing the mission after approximately 35 hours in the air.
5. Targets and Impact
Operation Secret Squirrel focused on disabling Iraq’s critical infrastructure to disrupt its ability to coordinate and respond to coalition forces. Primary targets included electrical power stations, telephone exchanges, and command and control centers in major Iraqi cities such as Baghdad, Basra, and Mosul.
The mission was a resounding success. The precision of the CALCMs ensured minimal collateral damage while effectively crippling key Iraqi infrastructure. Iraq’s air defense systems were caught off guard, unable to detect the low-flying missiles until it was too late. This initial blow significantly weakened Saddam Hussein’s regime’s ability to communicate and organize military responses.
The psychological impact was equally profound. The surprise and precision of the strikes demonstrated the overwhelming technological superiority of the coalition forces. It set the tone for the rest of Operation Desert Storm and helped expedite the liberation of Kuwait.
6. Aftermath and Declassification
In the months following the mission, the operation remained a closely guarded secret. It wasn’t until January 1992 that the Pentagon officially acknowledged the existence of Operation Secret Squirrel. At a ceremony held at Barksdale AFB, the participating aircrew were awarded medals and commendations for their roles in the historic mission.
The operation became a benchmark for future military planning and highlighted the strategic advantages of long-range bombers and precision-guided munitions. It influenced the development and deployment of similar systems in future conflicts, including operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.
Today, the veterans of the mission are fondly referred to as “Secret Squirrels,” and many of them participate in annual reunions to commemorate the operation. The legacy of the mission continues to be honored within the U.S. Air Force and serves as a symbol of innovation and excellence.
7. Legacy and Lessons Learned
Operation Secret Squirrel fundamentally changed the way military planners approached strategic bombing missions. It demonstrated that long-range, precision strikes could achieve significant military objectives without the need for ground invasion or close air support.
The success of the mission validated the use of GPS-guided munitions and encouraged their widespread adoption in modern arsenals. It also highlighted the importance of aerial refueling, mission planning, and crew endurance for extended operations. These lessons continue to shape U.S. Air Force doctrine today.
In an era where drone strikes and cyber warfare dominate headlines, the principles established by Operation Secret Squirrel remain relevant. Precision, surprise, and strategic foresight are still cornerstones of effective military operations, and this mission stands as a testament to what can be achieved with careful planning and advanced technology.
Operation Secret Squirrel FAQs
- Why was the mission called Operation Secret Squirrel? The nickname “Secret Squirrel” was informally adopted by the aircrew to maintain operational secrecy. It comes from the cartoon character of the same name, symbolizing covert operations and undercover missions.
- What aircraft were used in the operation? The mission employed B-52G Stratofortress bombers, known for their long range and heavy payload capabilities. These aircraft were ideal for the extended 35-hour mission and carried the AGM-86C cruise missiles.
- What was the significance of the AGM-86C CALCMs? These missiles marked the first combat use of GPS-guided air-launched cruise missiles. Their accuracy and range allowed the U.S. to strike high-value targets deep inside enemy territory with minimal risk.
- How long did the mission last? The mission lasted approximately 35 hours, covering over 14,000 miles round-trip. It was the longest combat mission in aviation history at the time.
- What were the main targets? Key Iraqi infrastructure, including power plants, communication hubs, and command centers, were targeted. The goal was to cripple Iraq’s ability to coordinate and respond to coalition attacks.
- How was the mission kept secret? Strict operational security protocols were followed. Only a select group of personnel were briefed, and the operation was not publicly acknowledged until a year later in 1992.
- What is the mission’s legacy? Operation Secret Squirrel demonstrated the effectiveness of long-range precision bombing and influenced modern air warfare strategy. It paved the way for the increased use of cruise missiles and stealth technology in future conflicts.
Conclusion
Operation Secret Squirrel stands as a remarkable example of American military innovation, precision, and strategic planning. From its secretive planning stages to its flawless execution and historic success, the mission redefined the capabilities of long-range bombing and the use of GPS-guided munitions.
It demonstrated that complex military objectives could be achieved with minimal casualties and maximum impact.
The mission’s legacy endures through continued advancements in aerial warfare and the reverence held by the Air Force community.
It remains a symbol of what can be accomplished through training, technology, and determination. As the veterans of the mission continue to share their experiences, their story inspires new generations of airmen and military strategists.
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