The Operation
A large joint task force (JTF), known as PROVEN FORCE and consisting of over 140 U.S. Air Forces Europe (USAFE) aircraft, had deployed to Turkey only days before and was a crucial part of the ensuing air campaign.
Timeline
Jan. 16: Headquarters USAFE activated the 7440th Composite wing (Provisional) at Incirlik to fly combat missions against Iraq. JTF Proven Force exercised operational control over the wing, which was under the command of Brig. Gen. Lee Downer.
Operation Desert Storm began.
Jan. 17: Having obtained Turkish approval for combat air operations out of Incirlik, Headquarters USAFE reinforced JTF Proven Force with additional aircraft.
Jan 18: JTF Proven Force conducted its first combat operations, attacking radar and early warning sites in northern Iraq.
Jan. 19: The first USAFE air to air victory credits of the war went to two Proven Force F-15 pilots. Capt. David Prather and Lt. David Sveden each destroyed an Iraqi Mirage F-1.
Jan. 29: Proven Force completed deployment of its units and equipment to Incirlik.
Feb. 15: JTF Proven Force conducted its first attacks on Baghdad.
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Naval War College Report
JOINT TASK FORCE PROVEN FORCE: AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS
by
Richard M. Meinhart
LT. Col. USAF