The operation, which took place 53 years after the 1973 October War, was a significant event in Egyptian military history. It was part of a series of special operations that paved the way for the Egyptian army's regained confidence and ability to take the initiative. The drilling rig, intended for oil exploration in Egyptian waters, was a key target. Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser had requested that the international community prevent the rig's use, but to no avail.
The operation was planned and executed by the Egyptian Navy's human frog commandos, with support from the General Intelligence Directorate. The commandos, led by Major Khalifa Goudet, underwent rigorous training to prepare for the mission. They practiced swimming long distances, navigating through challenging waters, and handling specialized equipment. The training was so intense that some of the commandos considered it a "picnic" compared to what they had endured during their preparation.
The human frog commandos were part of a larger effort to rebuild the Egyptian military after the 1967 war. The commandos' training was designed to push them to their limits, both physically and mentally. They practiced swimming in the Mediterranean, often covering distances of up to 20 kilometers. Their training also included navigating through treacherous waters and handling complex equipment.
The operation to destroy the Israeli drilling rig was a response to Israel's attempts to exploit Egypt's natural resources. The rig, operated by a Canadian company, was intended for oil exploration in the Gulf of Suez. Egyptian authorities saw this as a threat to national security and decided to take action. President Nasser assigned a team, including Samy Sharaf, Amin Howidi, and Mohamed Fawzi, to plan and execute the operation.
The commandos traveled to Dakar, where they prepared for the mission. They were divided into two teams, with Major Anwar Attia leading one group and Major Khalifa Goudet leading the other. The teams used fake identities and carried their equipment in diplomatic bags. The operation was a success, with the commandos destroying the rig and escaping undetected.
The destruction of the Israeli drilling rig was a significant blow to Israel's efforts to exploit Egypt's natural resources. The operation showcased the bravery and skill of the Egyptian human frog commandos and demonstrated Egypt's determination to protect its sovereignty. The mission was carried out with the utmost secrecy, and Israel was unable to prove Egyptian involvement.
The operation was a testament to the bravery and skill of the Egyptian military, particularly the human frog commandos. Their actions demonstrated Egypt's commitment to defending its national interests and sovereignty. The legendary operation has become an important part of Egyptian military history, symbolizing the country's determination to protect its resources and territorial integrity.
Key points
- The Egyptian human frog commandos' operation to destroy the Israeli drilling rig was a daring and successful mission that showcased their bravery and skill.
- The operation was part of a larger effort to rebuild the Egyptian military after the 1967 war and to protect Egypt's natural resources from Israeli exploitation.
- The mission was carried out with the utmost secrecy, and Israel was unable to prove Egyptian involvement.
