The Gulf War was renowned for the use of advanced military technology. The Allied forces used some of the newest aircraft and bombing technology to enhance the effectiveness of air attacks to allow around the clock bombing of Iraq's military targets. Some of the most advanced fighter aircraft were used to quickly gain air-superiority over the Iraqis. Highly advanced missiles were also used to attack Iraqi targets and force them out of Kuwait.

Allied bombing aircraft were extremely advantageous in operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. The most famous aircraft bombers were the F-117a Stealth Fighter, which was invisible to radar, and the modernized B-52 Stratofortress. These bombers used laser-guided and Electro-optic guided bombs, which targeted air attacks on military target significantly enhanced accuracy. They also used night vision devices, infrared navigation targeting system and target sensors for precision bombing. EXOCET missiles were compact enough to carry in trucks and were fired with pinpoint accuracy at Iraqi targets. The relentless and accurate night and day bombing destroyed numerous Iraqi mobile missile launchers, power plants, weapon factories, air bases and troops.

The air defense and air attack systems used by the allies included the F-14 Tomcat, F-15 Eagle, the F-16 Falcon, and the F-18 Hornet. All of these remain the bulk of the US fighter aircraft complement, which were used to gain initial air superiority. They were supported by various cargo aircraft such as the C-5 Galaxy, the C-141 Starlifter and the age-old dependable C-130 Hercules.

Allied helicopters such as the AH-IS Cobra and the CH-47 Chinhook, also played an important role in the Persian Gulf War. Perhaps the most famous of all helicopters used was the AH-64 Apache. After dark, Apaches were almost invisible making it reasonably simple for them to carry out a surprise attack. At daytime Apaches flew at high energy levels allowing them to advance at high speeds. In groups, they would circle their targets, fire and quickly retreat.

Among the armor and artillery used by field troops, initially to drive the Iraqis out of Kuwait, and then to invade deep into Iraqi territory, were the M1-A1 US battle tanks. This was the main stay and leading thrust of the field troops. They were supported by the M-109 Self-Propelled Guns or Howitzers. These were found enormously effective in view of their technical refinements, which have made them adaptable to all conditions including desert and swampy landscapes.

One should not forget the sterling support role played by the navy which assisted in the transport of troops and cargo, the provision of air support and the garden of key coastal strips in the gulf. These navy ships included aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers, destroyers, frigates and amphibious vessels.

Undoubtedly, technology played major role in ensuring that the Allies not only won the Gulf War, but also did so in a comprehensive and quick operation. In no previous war has the role of technology provided such an obvious advantage over the enemy. All it needed was 6 quick weeks for a force of over half a million to be overcome and subdued with total effectiveness.