Operation Rolling Thunder was started by the United States military. This sustained aerial bombing campaign began in 1965 during the Vietnam War.
Understanding Operation Rolling Thunder
Operation Rolling Thunder was a significant military campaign orchestrated by the United States. It was the first time the term "Operation Rolling Thunder" entered the American lexicon, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's involvement in Vietnam.
Key Aspects of Operation Rolling Thunder
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Initiator | The United States military |
| Commencement | 1965 |
| Location | Primarily over North Vietnam |
| Objective | To pressure North Vietnam into ceasing its support for the Viet Cong in South Vietnam, and to bolster the morale of the South Vietnamese. |
| Context | Part of the larger Cold War strategy to contain communist expansion by powers like the Soviet Union and China. |
The Context of Its Initiation
In 1965, the United States military was deeply involved in a shooting war in Vietnam. This conflict was not just a regional skirmish but a critical front in the broader global struggle against the expansion of communism, primarily driven by the Soviet Union and China. Operation Rolling Thunder was conceived as a way to exert significant pressure on North Vietnam, aiming to disrupt its supply lines and reduce its capacity to wage war against South Vietnam.
The campaign represented a major escalation of American involvement, moving beyond advisory roles to direct and sustained military engagement. It was a complex operation, characterized by:
- Sustained Bombing: Unlike previous limited strikes, Rolling Thunder was designed as a continuous bombing effort.
- Strategic Goals: Beyond direct military objectives, it aimed to send a political message and force negotiations.
- Evolving Tactics: The scope and targets of the operation often changed based on political considerations and military assessments.
The United States military, acting under the direction of the U.S. government, launched this extensive aerial campaign as a central component of its strategy during the Vietnam War.
