Falklands War

The Falklands War was a ten-week undeclared war between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1982 over two British dependent territories in the South Atlantic: the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The conflict began on 2 April, when Argentina invaded and occupied the Falkland Islands, followed by the invasion of South Georgia the next day. The British government dispatched a naval task force to engage the Argentine Navy and Air Force before making an amphibious assault on the islands. The conflict lasted 74 days and ended with the Argentine surrender on 14 June, returning the islands to British control. In total, 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 British military personnel, and three Falkland Islanders died during the hostilities.

Background

The origins of the Falklands War can be traced back to the long-standing dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. Argentina has claimed the islands since the early 19th century, citing inheritance from Spain upon independence, while the UK has maintained control since 1833.

Invasion

On 2 April 1982, Argentine forces launched Operation Rosario, landing on the Falkland Islands and quickly overcoming the small garrison of Royal Marines. The following day, Argentine forces occupied South Georgia.

British Response

The British government, led by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, quickly assembled a naval task force to retake the islands. The task force included aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, and support vessels, as well as ground troops from the British Army, Royal Marines, and Parachute Regiment.

Major Battles

Key battles during the Falklands War included the Battle of Goose Green, the Battle of Mount Tumbledown, and the Battle of Wireless Ridge. The British forces faced significant challenges, including harsh weather conditions and the threat of Argentine air attacks.

Surrender and Aftermath

On 14 June 1982, Argentine forces in the Falkland Islands surrendered to the British, effectively ending the conflict. The war had significant political ramifications in both countries. In the UK, it bolstered the popularity of the Thatcher government. In Argentina, the defeat led to the fall of the ruling military junta and the eventual restoration of democracy.

Legacy

The Falklands War had a lasting impact on military strategy and international relations. It highlighted the importance of air superiority, the vulnerability of naval vessels to missile attacks, and the challenges of conducting amphibious operations. The conflict also reinforced the UK's commitment to defending its overseas territories.

See Also

• History of the Falkland Islands
• Margaret Thatcher
• Operation Corporate
• Royal Navy
• Argentine Navy
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands