Opération Lamantin facts for kids

Opération Lamantin (which means "Operation Manatee" in French) was a military action carried out by France from December 1977 to July 1978. France helped the government of Mauritania in its fight against Sahrawi freedom fighters known as the Polisario Front. These fighters were using a type of warfare called guerrilla warfare, which involves small groups using surprise attacks. The Polisario Front wanted Western Sahara to become an independent country.

France used powerful Jaguar combat jets for this operation. These planes flew from the Dakar Airbase. They launched airstrikes, which are attacks from the air, in different areas. However, the operation did not achieve major results.

What Was Opération Lamantin?

Opération Lamantin was a military mission by France. Its main goal was to support Mauritania during a conflict. Mauritania was fighting against the Polisario Front, a group that wanted Western Sahara to be free from foreign control. The operation lasted for several months, from late 1977 into mid-1978.

Who Were the Polisario Front?

The Polisario Front is a political and military group. They represent the Sahrawi people, who live in Western Sahara. Their main aim has always been for Western Sahara to become an independent nation. They used guerrilla tactics, which means they fought using small, mobile groups and surprise attacks rather than large armies.

Why Did France Get Involved?

France had historical ties with Mauritania. At the time, Mauritania was struggling in its conflict with the Polisario Front. The Polisario Front was disrupting important economic activities in Mauritania, like mining. France decided to help Mauritania by providing military support, hoping to weaken the Polisario Front's efforts.

How the Operation Worked

During Opération Lamantin, French forces used their advanced Jaguar combat aircraft. These jets are designed for fighting and bombing. They took off from the Dakar Airbase, which is located in Senegal.

Targets of the Airstrikes

The main targets for the French airstrikes were the rail lines and mines in Mauritania. Specifically, they focused on the railway that connects the iron ore mines in Zouérat to the port city of Nouadhibou on the coast. The Polisario Front had been blocking these important rail lines. By bombing these areas, France aimed to stop the Polisario Front from disrupting Mauritania's economy and its ability to transport valuable resources.

Results of Opération Lamantin

Even though France used powerful jets and launched several airstrikes, the overall results of Opération Lamantin were not very significant. The operation did not completely stop the Polisario Front's activities. The conflict over Western Sahara continued for some time after the operation ended in July 1978.