Operation Anaconda
$200M
Cost
2,000
Troops Deployed
8
US Casualties
100
Civilian Deaths
Overview
The first major ground operation of the Afghan War, targeting al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters in the Shah-i-Kot Valley. US and Afghan forces attempted to encircle and destroy an estimated 150-200 fighters but found 700-1,000 instead.
Outcome
Militants dispersed into Pakistan rather than being destroyed. The operation exposed intelligence failures and coordination problems between conventional and special operations forces.
Key Fact
The operation was planned for 150 enemies but encountered 1,000. Despite massive firepower including B-52 strikes, most fighters escaped into Pakistan.