Operation Cyclone
Operation Cyclone was the code name for a covert program conducted by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to arm and finance Afghan Mujahideen from 1979 to 1992.[1][2] The operation was initiated prior to and during the military intervention by the USSR in support of the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan.[1][2]
Program Overview
The operation was a covert military assistance program designed to support militants against the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan and the USSR invasion force.[1] It lasted from 3 July 1979 until 1992.[1] The program included the training of tens of thousands of Mujahideen.[1] It also involved the delivery of thousands of tons of weaponry to these forces, which were valued at several billion US dollars.[1]
Objectives and Goals
The primary objective of Operation Cyclone was to arm, train, and finance the Afghan Mujahideen.[1] The program targeted the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan and the USSR forces.[1] It was planned by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the General Intelligence Presidency (Saudi intelligence), and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).[1]
The CIA provided weapons sales, training, and financing for the Afghan Mujahideen.[1] Support for the militants was also provided by Britain's MI6 through separate covert actions.[1]
Impact on the Soviet-Afghan War
The program contributed to the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in February 1989.[1] The operation also resulted in the collapse of the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan in 1992.[1]
Legacy and Consequences
The operation involved United States involvement in regime change.[1] There have been allegations regarding CIA assistance to bin Laden in connection with the program.[1]