The division took part in the Italian invasion of Egypt and was destroyed during the Battle of Sidi Barrani.

By the time Italy entered World War II the division had 7,224 troops and its commanding general was Luigi Sibille.

[2] In September 1940 the 1st Libyan Division participated in the Italian invasion of Egypt.

On 13 September the 1st Libyan Division and 1st Paratroopers Regiment "Fanti dell'Aria" attacked Sollum in British Egypt, which was defended by platoons of the Coldstream Guards.

[3] The British laid mines in the area and quickly withdrew to Marsa Matruh after suffering 50 casualties.