Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 17:59-19:01

HMS Ark Royal's possible Falklands roles

A surviving Ark Royal could lead the air campaign or release Hermes for a helicopter-heavy amphibious role, depending on which aircraft remained available.

Aircraft CarriersAmphibious WarfareFalklands WarFleet Air ArmHMS Ark Royal
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Question

What missions might HMS Ark Royal have performed in the Falklands War if she remained in service?

Short answer

Her air group decides the role: she could lead fixed-wing operations or let Hermes concentrate on amphibious helicopters and command support.

Notes

Ark Royal's Falklands role depends on her air group. With Phantoms, Buccaneers, and Gannets she would lead the air attack and provide capabilities absent from the historical task force. With Sea Harriers she and Invincible could shoulder fleet air defence while Hermes operated more fully as a commando carrier. Extra helicopter capacity could accelerate movement of the amphibious force and reduce dependence on later transport arrivals.