This document discusses strategies for using armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) during the conflict in northern Mali. It outlines plans for a siege of Gao using AFVs from Mali, Niger and Algeria alongside humanitarian support. It acknowledges that the actual operations incorporated elements of this plan but differed in places and timing due to the uncertainties of war. France's rapid response after Mali requested assistance is noted as exploiting their ability to project air and ground forces into the region on short notice. The document also estimates reconstruction costs for Mali ranging from €1-3 billion.