The Falklands War was a ten-week conflict in 1982 between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands. The war resulted in an Argentine surrender and the return of the islands to British control. The dispute over the sovereignty of the territories remains unresolved.
The English captain John Strong made the first landing on the Falkland Islands in 1690, which later became a point of contention in the dispute over the control of the islands between Britain and Argentina.
In 1764, France established a colony on East Falkland, contributing to the long-standing dispute over the territory of the Falkland Islands.
In 1765, Britain claimed West Falkland as a colony, setting the stage for further disputes and conflicts over the control of the Falkland Islands.
In 1766, France and Spain reach an agreement where French forces are to leave, and Spain agrees to pay for the installations built by de Bougainville.
In 1767, Fort St Louis is formally transferred to the Spanish Crown and renamed Puerto Soledad. Bougainville is compensated for his efforts, and the first Spanish Governor, Don Felipe Ruiz Puente, is appointed.
In 1769, British and Spanish ships encounter each other while surveying the island, leading to accusations from both sides about the lawful reasons for their presence in the islands.
In 1770, the Falkland Crisis unfolds as five Spanish ships arrive at Port Egmont with over 1400 troops under General Madariaga's command. The British are compelled to abandon Port Egmont, sparking threats of war.
In 1771, the Falkland dispute is settled with Spain retaining Puerto Soledad and Great Britain Port Egmont. Spain returns seized goods and denies a secret agreement for British withdrawal.
Despite Argentine objections, Great Britain retained control of the Falkland Islands after 1832, leading to ongoing tensions between the two countries.
In 1833, Britain reasserted its sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, leading to ongoing debates and tensions with Argentina regarding the control of the islands.
In 1946, Britain included the Falkland Islands among the non-autonomous territories under its administration, according to Chapter XI of the UN charter.
In 1964, a Cessna 172 piloted by Miguel Fitzgerald landed on the racecourse in Stanley, planting the Argentine flag and delivering a letter claiming sovereignty to surprised residents.
In December 1965, United Nations Resolution 2065 urged Britain and Argentina to engage in negotiations for a peaceful resolution regarding the Falkland Islands, considering the interests of the island's population.
In 1966, Aerolíneas Argentinas Flight 648 was hijacked by terrorists known as 'Condors' and forced to land on Stanley racecourse. Islanders, thinking the aircraft was in distress, rushed to help and were taken hostage. The situation was resolved through persuasion and the terrorists were repatriated to Argentina.
In 1967, Britain initiated negotiations with Argentina and expressed readiness to discuss the transfer of sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.
In 1968, the Falkland Islands Emergency Committee was established to advocate for the islanders' desire to remain under British sovereignty. During a visit by Lord Chalfont, Miguel Fitzgerald crash-landed a plane, reinforcing the islanders' rejection of sovereignty transfer.
In 1971, a communications agreement was signed between Britain and Argentina regarding the Falkland Islands. This agreement included the establishment of air links by Argentina's military airline, LADE, and a promise of a supply ship from Montevideo by Britain, which was later not fulfilled. Islanders were also required to carry Argentine Identity Cards instead of British passports.
In 1972, construction began on a temporary airfield at Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. This development aimed to improve the infrastructure and accessibility of the islands.
In 1973, newly elected President Juan Perón of Argentina renewed the sovereignty claim over the Falkland Islands at the United Nations. Despite resolution 3160 urging negotiations, Britain refused to engage in discussions.
In 1974, YPF became the sole supplier of oil and gas to the Falkland Islands. Britain proposed a condominium solution to the sovereignty dispute, but the islanders rejected this proposal.
In 1975, the construction of a paved runway at Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands started. Additionally, Lord Shackleton was tasked with conducting an economic survey of the islands. Diplomatic relations between the UK and Argentina were severed.
In 1976, the RRS Shackleton was fired upon by the Argentine destroyer ARA Almirante Storni during Lord Shackleton's mission. Argentina also established a military base on Southern Thule. Despite British protests, diplomatic solutions were sought.
In 1977, Operation Journeyman was initiated by the Callaghan Government in response to escalating tensions with Argentina. A Royal Navy task force was dispatched to the South Atlantic, and negotiations with Argentina regarding the Falkland Islands were reopened. Stanley airport was also inaugurated.
In 1978, the Falkland Islands Association opened a London office to advocate for the interests of the islanders in the UK Parliament.
In 1979, Nicholas Ridley visited the Falkland Islands to gather the opinions of the islanders.
In December 1980, UK Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nicholas Ridley visited the Falklands to propose a leaseback scheme to the islanders, which was met with strong opposition. Ridley's report to parliament was criticized as a sellout.
Argentine scrap-metal merchant Constantino Davidoff landed on South Georgia without authorization, leading to a formal protest by the British Ambassador to Argentina.
The Argentine Joint Armed Forces Committee started planning a military invasion of the Falkland Islands, which was later revealed in articles in La Prensa newspaper.
The two deputy foreign ministers issued a joint communiqué appreciating the positive and cordial spirit of the sovereignty discussions regarding the Falkland Islands.
On March 19, 1982, Argentine scrap metal merchants raised the Argentine flag at South Georgia Island, an act later considered the first offensive action in the Falklands War. This event heightened tensions between Argentina and the UK.
At a junta meeting in Buenos Aires on 23 March, the final decision to invade the Falklands was made. This decision was influenced by various factors, including political considerations and military assessments.
On 26 March, the submarine HMS Superb left Gibraltar, leading to speculation in the press that she was heading south. This speculation may have influenced the Argentine junta's decision to invade the Falklands before British submarines could be deployed.
In response to events on South Georgia, on 29 March, British Ministers decided to send the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Fort Austin south from the Mediterranean to support HMS Endurance, and the nuclear-powered fleet submarine HMS Spartan from Gibraltar.
After an emergency meeting of the cabinet on 1 April, approval was given to form a task force to retake the Falkland Islands. This decision was further supported in an emergency sitting of the House of Commons the next day.
On April 2, 1982, the Falklands War started between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the disputed Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic.
Following the occupation of the Falkland Islands, Argentina invaded and took control of South Georgia. This further escalated the conflict between Argentina and Britain during the Falklands War.
Brigadier Thompson held a briefing with his Commanding Officers (COs) at Plymouth on this day, likely discussing strategic plans and updates related to the Falklands conflict. Additionally, Submarine Conqueror departed from Faslane, potentially for operational duties.
On 5 April 1982, a joint force was assembled and set sail for the South Atlantic to retake the Falkland Islands after the Argentine invasion. The Task Force consisted of 100 ships and various military units.
A Memorandum from the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs to Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger in 1982 summarized the intelligence, communications, and logistics support routinely given by the United States to Argentina and the UK at the onset of the Falklands War.
The ocean liner SS Canberra was requisitioned by the British government and set sail with the 3 Commando Brigade aboard as part of the British task force en route to the Falkland Islands during the Falklands War.
Alexander Haig, the United States Secretary of State, arrived in London on a shuttle diplomacy mission from President Ronald Reagan to broker a peace deal regarding the Falklands War, but faced challenges in negotiations with both British and Argentine officials.
The European Economic Community imposed economic sanctions on Argentina by proposing a total import ban during a meeting at the Egmont Palace.
On April 10, 1982, the Antrim Group arrived at Ascension.
Admiral Sir John Fieldhouse agreed to deploy an extra Army brigade to the Falklands, as the existing mobile infantry force was unavailable. The 5th Infantry Brigade, consisting of Gurkhas and Paras, was reinforced with the 2nd Scots Guards and 1st Welsh Guards.
On April 12, 1982, the United Kingdom imposed a 200-mile Maritime Exclusion Zone around the Falklands.
On April 14, 1982, the Brilliant Group departed from Ascension. Rear Admiral Woodward also left Ascension aboard Glamorgan, accompanied by Alacrity, Broadsword, and Yarmouth.
The Task Force set sail from Ascension on April 16, 1982. Hermes arrived at Ascension while Invincible departed. Rear Admiral Woodward held discussions on campaign strategy with Clapp and Thompson aboard Fearless.
On April 17, 1982, Admiral Fieldhouse and Major General Moore flew to Ascension to meet with Woodward, Thompson, and Clapp aboard Hermes.
The Carrier Battle Group, consisting of Hermes, Invincible, Glamorgan, Broadsword, Yarmouth, Alacrity, RFA Olmeda, and Resource, departed from Ascension on April 18, 1982.
On this day, the ships Canberra and Elk arrived at Ascension Island. Additionally, Royal Marines who were captured at South Georgia arrived in the UK.
Between 21 and 25 April 1982, 'D' Squadron of 22 Special Air Service (SAS), along with a Special Boat Service (SBS) section and 'M' Company of 42 Commando, successfully recaptured the island of South Georgia as part of the Falkland Islands Dependencies.
An SAS team was rescued from Fortuna Glacier on this day. Additionally, two Wessex helicopters crashed.
On 23 April 1982, British Harriers intercepted a Brazilian commercial Douglas DC-10 from VARIG Airlines en route to South Africa. The civilian plane was visually identified by the British aircraft.
After the initial invasion by Argentina, British forces successfully reoccupied South Georgia. This marked a turning point in the Falklands War as Britain started to regain control of the territories.
Argentine forces on South Georgia surrendered on this day.
The Cabinet in London gave approval for Operation Sutton on this day. Additionally, the ships Norland and Sir Bedivere departed from the UK.
On this day, the United Kingdom declared a 200-mile Total Exclusion Zone, expanding it to include aircraft and ships of all nations. Additionally, the hospital ship Uganda arrived at Ascension.
The hospital ship Uganda departed from Ascension on this day.
On 30 April, the Reagan administration announced public support for the United Kingdom during the Falklands War, a significant diplomatic move in the conflict.
In a significant naval engagement, Britain sank the cruiser General Belgrano, impacting Argentina's control of the seas during the Falklands War. This event shifted the balance of power in the conflict.
The British submarine Conqueror sank the cruiser General Belgrano on this day.
During the Falklands War, the British warship HMS Sheffield was struck by an Exocet missile launched by the Argentine military.
The British Type 42 destroyer HMS Sheffield was struck by an Exocet missile from the Argentine 2nd Naval Air Fighter/Attack Squadron, resulting in a fire that ultimately led to the ship sinking on May 10. The attack killed 20 crew members and severely injured 24 others.
On May 5, 1982, eight RAF Harrier jets arrived at Ascension Island during the Falklands War. These aircrafts played a crucial role in supporting British operations in the conflict.
Argentine newspapers and magazines published false information, including faked photos and bogus eyewitness reports, to support the government's official communiqués during the Falklands War.
During the Falklands War, both Argentina and the United Kingdom requested LANDSAT photos of the same coverage area, causing a challenge for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) to deconflict the requests.
On May 8, 1982, the first refuelled air drops were delivered to the Task Force in the Falklands War. This logistical operation ensured the continuous support of British troops.
The HMS Sheffield, heavily damaged earlier, sank while under tow on May 10, 1982, during the Falklands War. This marked the final chapter of the ship's tragic fate in the conflict.
Queen Elizabeth II leaves Southampton with most of 5 Infantry Brigade aboard. Glasgow is damaged by Argentine aircraft and Cardiff departs Gibraltar. 3 Commando Brigade HQ issues Operational Order for the landings in San Carlos Water.
On May 14, 1982, the Special Air Service (SAS) conducted a raid on Pebble Island in the Falklands. The raid targeted the Argentine Navy's occupation of a grass airstrip, resulting in the destruction of several aircraft.
SBS teams were inserted by HMS Brilliant at Grantham Sound to reconnoitre and observe the landing beaches at San Carlos Bay.
Spanish authorities foiled a covert attack by the Argentine Naval Intelligence Service on a British warship at Gibraltar, code named Operation Algeciras.
On May 18, 1982, the final British negotiating position was presented to Argentina by UN Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar. The British proposed a UN administrator to supervise the mutual withdrawal of forces and govern the Falkland Islands.
The Cabinet approves amphibious landings. A Sea King carrying SAS crashes into the sea during cross-decking.
An SBS troop and artillery observers were landed by Wessex helicopters for an assault on an Argentine observation post at Fanning Head which overlooked the entrance of the bay.
As part of the Falklands War, British forces successfully landed at San Carlos Bay in the Falkland Islands, marking a significant strategic advancement in the conflict.
3 Commando Brigade executes landings in San Carlos Water. HMS Ardent is sunk.
On May 22, 1982, 3 Commando Brigade landed at Ajax Bay during the Falklands War. They established a Brigade Maintenance Area at the bay.
The Battle of Goose Green took place during the Falklands War in 1982. Lieutenant Colonel Herbert 'H' Jones led 2 Para in a full assault on the Argentine garrison at Goose Green after poor weather conditions initially called off the raid.
The Argentinian Air Force launched an attack on the landing logistic ships RFA Sir Galahad and RFA Sir Tristram on May 24, 1982, during the Falklands War. The attack resulted in significant damage and casualties, contributing to the overall toll of the conflict.
During the Falklands War in 1982, the British Task Force lost all but one of their heavy-lift Chinook helicopters when the SS 'Atlantic Conveyor' was hit by an Exocet missile, limiting their capabilities for the upcoming operations.
On May 26, 1982, 2 Para left Sussex Mountain to advance on Goose Green during the Falklands War.
Lieutenant Colonel H. Jones of 2 Para was killed leading his battalion in an attack on well-prepared Argentine positions. The BBC prematurely announced the taking of Goose Green before it actually happened.
During the Falklands War in May 1982, the Battle of Goose Green took place where the 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment of the British forces captured the first settlement. The battle was fierce, resulting in the death of Lieutenant-Colonel Herbert ‘H’ Jones, the battalion commander.
On Saturday, May 29, 1982, Major Keeble accepted the surrender of 1,100 Argentine troops at Goose Green. Additionally, the Atlantic Conveyor sank under tow.
Two Super Étendards and four A-4C Skyhawks from Argentina attempted to attack HMS Invincible with Exocet missiles and bombs, but British low level transit tactic disguised the carrier's position. Two attacking Skyhawks were shot down by Sea Dart missiles, and the Exocet missile was claimed to be shot down by HMS Avenger. No damage was caused to British vessels.
On Monday, May 31, 1982, various operations took place during the Falklands War: 42 Commando moved by air to Mount Kent, Mountain and Arctic Warfare Cadre defeated Argentine troops at Top Malo House, 3 Para arrived at Douglas settlement, and 45 Commando arrived at Teal Inlet settlement.
On June 1, 1982, the Black Buck 5 raid targeted a radar position in Stanley. Additionally, 5 Infantry Brigade started disembarking in San Carlos Water, and 3 Commando Brigade set up a forward base at Teal Inlet. Furthermore, 3 Para, 42 Commando, and 45 Commando initiated patrols around planned objectives in preparation for major engagements.
On June 2, 1982, 2 Para was flown to Bluff Cove as part of military operations.
A Black Buck 6 raid was carried out on June 3, 1982, targeting the runway at Stanley.
On June 5, 1982, the Scots Guards boarded the Sir Tristram vessel to head towards Bluff Cove.
The Welsh Guards were supposed to embark on the Fearless ship for Fitzroy on June 6, 1982, but the sailing was halted. Meanwhile, the Scots Guards successfully landed at Bluff Cove, and 5 Infantry Brigade established a forward base there.
On June 7, 1982, the landing ships Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram anchored near Fitzroy in Port Pleasant during the Falklands War. Confusion over the disembarkation point led to a disagreement among officers about unloading the troops, resulting in a delay in reaching the designated landing point.
Due to delays in unloading troops at Bluff Cove, two British landing ships, Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram, were attacked by Argentine A-4 Skyhawks, causing fires and casualties. The air strike also delayed the scheduled British ground attack on Stanley.
British forces initiated an assault on the strategically important town of Port Stanley, surrounding it and compelling Argentinian forces to surrender. This marked a crucial victory for Britain in the Falklands War.
By sunrise, all attacks had succeeded. Additionally, Glamorgan was struck by a land-based Exocet missile, and the Black Buck 7 Raid was conducted against a radar installation at Stanley.
British forces continued their assault on Stanley with 2 Para capturing Wireless Ridge and the Scots Guards capturing Mount Tumbledown. The attacks resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
The Falklands War concluded with the surrender of Argentine forces, leading to the restoration of British control over the Falkland Islands.
After 74 days of conflict, Argentina surrendered, and the Falkland Islands returned to British control. The war resulted in a significant death toll on both sides.
On June 15, 1982, following the surrender of Argentine forces, British Paras and Royal Marines began disarming the Argentines and relocating them to the airport in the Falklands War.
On June 17, 1982, around 5,000 Argentine prisoners of war were embarked on SS 'Canberra' and 1,000 on MV 'Norland' for repatriation. By June 20, a total of 10,250 prisoners had been repatriated, with only 593 remaining for intelligence purposes.
The British retook the South Sandwich Islands on 20 June, accepting the surrender of the Southern Thule Garrison at the Corbeta Uruguay base and declaring hostilities over.
By July 14, 1982, the last remaining Argentine prisoners of war, including Menéndez, were repatriated, marking the end of the repatriation process and intelligence gathering efforts.
On July 19, 1982, the Scots Guards, who had guarded POWs at Ajax Bay and later at Port Howard on West Falkland, were the last Army units to leave the Falklands. They sailed on 'Norland' for Ascension Island.
The victory in the Falklands War in 1982 had a profound impact on British foreign policy, boosting the country's self-confidence and global standing. It marked a turning point from a series of setbacks in foreign affairs since the Suez Crisis in 1956.
On Liberation Day, 14th June 1984, the Falklands War memorial was dedicated.
In 1985, a new Falkland Islands constitution was adopted, establishing the islands as a parliamentary representative democratic dependency.
After their defeat in the Falklands War, Argentina found solace in their victory in the 1986 World Cup. The win was seen as a form of revenge against England for the war.
In 1987, the Falkland Islands Fishery regime was established, becoming the major source of income for the islands.
Diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Argentina were restored in 1989 following a meeting in Madrid, at which the two governments issued a joint statement. No change in either country's position regarding the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands was made explicit.
In 1990, Britain and Argentina resumed diplomatic relations, marking a significant step in their relationship.
In 1991, Argentine next of kin visited the Argentine cemetery in Darwin, reflecting on the past conflicts.
Margaret Thatcher unveiled a memorial known as 'The Yomper' in 1992 outside the former Eastney Barracks near Portsmouth to commemorate the Royal Marines who served and died in the Falklands War.
In 1994, Argentina adopted a new constitution, which declared the Falkland Islands as part of one of its provinces by law. However, the islands continue to operate as a self-governing British Overseas Territory.
In 1995, the British and Argentine Governments signed an agreement concerning the exploitation of oil deposits surrounding the Falkland Islands.
In 1997, a constitutional amendment balanced the number of elected officials between Stanley and Camp in the Falkland Islands.
In 1998, the UK relaxed its arms embargo on sales to Argentina, indicating a shift in diplomatic relations.
The Chilean government requests its airlines to stop flying to the Falklands in response to the arrest of Augusto Pinochet in London. This prompts negotiations between the Falkland Islanders and the British Government.
The Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel at Pangbourne College was opened in March 2000 to honor the lives and sacrifice of all those who served and died in the South Atlantic during the 1982 Falklands War.
In 2001, the British military garrison is withdrawn from South Georgia.
In 2002, an interview with Julio Pérez, a retired engineer, was conducted regarding the ITB Exocet battery in the Malvinas (Falkland Islands). The interview likely discussed the operation and significance of the Exocet battery during the conflict.
Several yachts competing in a solo round the world race are forced into Stanley, Falklands, for repairs in 2003.
In 2004, a permanent memorial to Argentine war dead is dedicated in the Argentine Military Cemetery. The Argentine icebreaker Almirante Irízar harasses shipping in Falkland waters.
In 2005, Falklands Gold and Minerals prospect for Gold in Lafonia.
In 2006, the United Nations made a statement expressing support for a negotiated settlement regarding the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) issue.
In May 2007, the International Debates Archives discussed the ongoing dispute over the Falklands/Malvinas Islands, 25 years after the war. The issue remains unresolved despite the passage of time.
On May 9, 2008, the Falkland Islands Government stated that the minefields on the islands presented no long-term social or economic difficulties, opposing the British Government's commitment to clear the mines by the end of 2019.
Preliminary clearance of some mine fields from the Falklands War begins. Argentina creates a diplomatic incident over Falkland Islands Government representatives attending a conference on sustainable fishing in Spain. The Argentine memorial at the Darwin cemetery is finally inaugurated.
Oil exploration activities commence around the Falkland Islands, indicating a significant development in the region's economic prospects.
In 2011, there were 113 uncleared minefields covering an area of 13 km2 on the Falkland Islands, with estimates of 20,000 anti-personnel mines and 5,000 anti-tank mines. The UK reported military personnel injuries due to mines and UXOs.
On May 17, 2012, Paul A. Olsen presented a report titled 'Operation Corporate' at the School of Advanced Military Studies. The report may have discussed the operational art and implications of the Falklands War for the Joint Operational Access Concept.
The Falkland Islands Government organizes a referendum on the political status of the Falkland Islands, resulting in overwhelming support for maintaining the link with the UK.
In 2018, a memorial was dedicated to the fallen soldiers of 2 Para who fought at Wireless Ridge during the Falklands War. The memorial serves as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who bravely fought in the conflict.
In 2019, an expedition led by Falkland Islander Mensun Bound discovered the wreck of the SMS Scharnhorst to the North of the Falkland Islands.
In November 2020, after a final clearance campaign, the Falkland Islands were declared free of all landmines. A celebration event was held where the final landmine was detonated.
The ship Endurance departs from Stanley for South Georgia with helicopters and Royal Marines onboard.
The vessel Bahia Buen Suceso departs from Leith Harbour, leaving behind forty-eight scrap metal workers.
Royal Marines from the Endurance ship land at Leith to observe Argentine activities.
Argentine marines arrive at Leith from the Bahia Paraiso.
A replacement Naval Party, designated as 8901, arrives in Stanley.
Royal Marines detachment disembarks from the Endurance ship at Grytviken.