Operation Marne Torch

Operation Marne Torch refers to two operations of coalition forces in Iraq in the summer of 2007. Both times have focused the fighting on the Arab Jabour region in the province of Babil. The first operation, Operation Marne Torch I started on 16 June 2007 with the attacks of the coalition forces and the Iraqi army positions of al - Qaida and other extremist groups in Arab Jabour. The aim was to conquer havens of the insurgents and extremists in the south of Baghdad. 2,000 coalition soldiers and 1,000 Iraqi security forces were involved in the application.

Operation Marne Torch II began on 15 September 2007. Venue was this the Hawr Rajab region. The coalition forces went before, with the support of a group of locals from Arab Jabour against insurgents on the west bank of the Tigris. During the operation the rebels were 250 casualties (killed / captured ) was added. Addition, it was 12 boats that were used to transport weapons, be assured. Larger weapons caches were also discovered.

Background

The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division was the last brigade, who arrived as part of the "surge " in Iraq. Their mission was the liberation and protection of the Arab Jabour region. From there, fighters and weapons were smuggled into Baghdad regularly. The coalition forces turned this on a new tactic against the insurgents by the troops left their bases and held close to the local population. It was hoped that this way a greater sense of security among the population as well as more evidence of terrorist activities.

Participating units

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

Operation Marne Torch I

As part of the nationwide Operation Phantom Thunder, which began in June 2007, launched the Multi National Division - Center a major offensive against insurgents on both sides of the Tigris. In this area a few coalition troops had been present so far and many areas were firmly in the hands of the insurgents. The application consisted of raids, patrols and purges. According to Joshua Paltrow of the Washington Post were in the first week of the offensive in the region of Arab Jabour already killed five suspects and captured more than 60. Until June 21, 237 house searches were carried out in the region.

Until completion of the operation on 15 July 2007, a total about 1,200 homes had been checked. This 83 insurgents had been killed, captured more than 278. Several major weapons caches were found. To bypass of the insurgents mined terrain, the U.S. troops were often laid with helicopters. As part of the operation insurgents were repeatedly until incorporated by airborne landings and subsequently destroyed by air strikes. The Combat Aviation Brigade was responsible for over 70 % of the added losses of the insurgents.

Operation Marne Torch II

Operation Marne Torch II began on 15 September 2007 in Hwar Rajab region. With the support of about 700 locals coalition forces proceeded against the rebels in front on the west side of the Tigris. More than 250 insurgents have been captured or killed. In addition, more weapons cache could be found. Furthermore, several new outposts established by the coalition forces, from which a further advance was made possible in the south. There were a few strongholds of the insurgents. Of these, use was made, among other things during Operation Phantom Phoenix. In addition, the bases conveyed a sense of security for the population.