Operation Rolling Thunder was a sustained bombing campaign conducted by the United States during the Vietnam War. It lasted from March 2, 1965, to November 2, 1968, and was aimed at disrupting North Vietnam's military infrastructure and reducing their ability to wage war against South Vietnam.
The objective of Operation Rolling Thunder was to exert significant pressure on North Vietnam, with the hope of persuading them to cease their support for the Viet Cong insurgency in South Vietnam. The campaign involved the extensive use of airpower, primarily from the U.S. Air Force and Navy.
Under Operation Rolling Thunder, the U.S. carried out a systematic bombing campaign against various targets in North Vietnam. These targets included military bases, supply routes, industrial sites, bridges, and airfields. The bombings aimed to degrade North Vietnam's logistical capabilities, disrupt transportation routes, and undermine their ability to resupply their forces in the South.
The operation involved the use of different types of aircraft, including fighter-bombers, bombers, and attack aircraft. The U.S. also employed aerial reconnaissance and electronic warfare to gather intelligence and disrupt North Vietnamese communications.
Despite its extensive duration and the significant amount of firepower deployed, Operation Rolling Thunder did not achieve its primary objective of forcing North Vietnam to abandon its support for the Viet Cong. The North Vietnamese were resilient and adapted their tactics and strategies to withstand the bombings. Additionally, the operation led to substantial civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, which fueled anti-war sentiments both domestically and internationally.
Operation Rolling Thunder was eventually halted in 1968, partly due to its limited effectiveness and the escalating public opposition to the war. However, air operations and bombings continued throughout the remainder of the conflict until the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 1973.