SOF Pic of the Day: Jawbreaker 91101-First Boots on the Ground in Afghanistan after 9/11

First In

Today’s Pic of the Day is a Russian Mi-17 helicopter designated 91101. It was part of Operation Jawbreaker, which put the first US boots on the ground in Afghanistan only 15 days after the attacks of 9/11. It carried 3 pilots and seven CIA officers from the Special Activities Division (SAD). It also contained a steel box with $ 3 million in $100 bills because that’s how business was conducted in Afghanistan in those days. The Northern Alliance would not exactly take debit cards.

The Mi-17 was chosen because it would not arouse suspicion, as there were already several operating in the area. It was specially modified to fly at high altitudes and over mountains.

Jawbreaker’s presence wasn’t just boots on the ground. They were equipped with cutting-edge satellite communication tools, ensuring real-time communication with the CIA headquarters. They were instrumental in setting up targets for Operation Crescent Wind, facilitating emergency combat search and rescue operations, and assessing the aftermath of bombings. Notably, they revamped a historic airstrip in Gulbahar, originally constructed by the British in 1919, making it feasible for modern fixed-wing aircraft landings.

Jawbreaker taking off — Taking off in the Panjshir Valley in the Fall of 2001. Photo courtesy of the CIA

Primary Objectives

To liaise with the Northern Alliance, an Afghan faction that was already fighting the Taliban prior to 9/11.
To gather real-time intelligence on the ground.
To facilitate targeting for U.S. airstrikes against Taliban and al-Qaeda forces.
To prepare the ground for the subsequent introduction of U.S. conventional forces.

Jawbreaker numbers — Two days after arrival in Afghanistan, the tail number was repainted to 91101. Photo courtesy of the CIA

Significance

Operation Jawbreaker and the relationships it established with the Northern Alliance were instrumental in the rapid fall of the Taliban in Afghanistan. The CIA team provided the Northern Alliance with weapons, supplies, and cash, and called in precise airstrikes against Taliban positions.

Challenges

The team faced significant challenges in terms of the rugged terrain, a hostile environment, and the complex geopolitics of Afghanistan. They had to navigate the internal rivalries of the Afghan factions and ensure the various groups were unified against the common enemy – the Taliban and al-Qaeda.

Outcome

Operation Jawbreaker, in coordination with U.S. military operations, achieved initial success in rapidly ousting the Taliban from power. Kabul, the Afghan capital, fell to the Northern Alliance on November 13, 2001.

jawbreaker in the us — The Mi-17 back in the US after his mission was over. Photo courtesy of the CIA

The story of Operation Jawbreaker is a testament to the capabilities of small, specialized teams working in challenging environments. It underscores the importance of intelligence-driven operations in modern warfare, especially in the early stages of a conflict.

First In

The Mi-17 was chosen because it would not arouse suspicion, as there were already several operating in the area. It was specially modified to fly at high altitudes and over mountains.

Primary Objectives

To liaise with the Northern Alliance, an Afghan faction that was already fighting the Taliban prior to 9/11.
To gather real-time intelligence on the ground.
To facilitate targeting for U.S. airstrikes against Taliban and al-Qaeda forces.
To prepare the ground for the subsequent introduction of U.S. conventional forces.

Significance

Challenges

Outcome

A Short Video From The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum

As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.

One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief

Subscribe Now

COMMENTS

There are on this article.

You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.

VETERAN-FRIENDLY COMPANIES

Barrett Firearms

Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.

[email protected]
615-896-2938
Visit Website
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States

Scrubba Wash Bag

Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.

Pyramyd Air

Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.