What if Chile bought HMS Bulwark before the Falklands War?
Short answerIf she were still refitting in Britain, emergency purchase or agreement could return her as the task force's commando helicopter carrier.
NotesA British refit for Chile might have repaired the machinery, structure, and communications deficiencies that prevented Bulwark's historical reactivation. If the work were still under way in early 1982, compulsory purchase or an agreement with Chile could return the ship to Royal Navy service. Used as the amphibious force's flight deck, she could carry commandos, helicopters, and possibly additional ground-attack Harriers. That would free space aboard Hermes and Invincible for more Sea Harriers and give the landing force a dedicated aviation platform in or near San Carlos Water. Carrying more helicopters, including Chinooks, directly on a carrier would also reduce the task force's dependence on Atlantic Conveyor.