Ardent's mission was to draw attacks away from vulnerable amphibious shipping while covering the southern approach through Falkland Sound. Land clutter complicated radar detection, nearby ships could offer little mutual support, and local-control teams had to connect visual sightings with gun and Sea Cat cues. Moving into open water improved some firing opportunities while making the frigate a deliberately visible target for aircraft approaching the landing area. The crew's mixed confidence and fear show how tactical orders were experienced throughout the ship, from the operations room to repair parties and engineering spaces.
Chapter · 2:19:53-2:27:02
HMS Ardent's exposed air-defence station in Falkland Sound
Through Fire and Water follows Ardent as she moves to protect the amphibious force with a four-and-a-half-inch gun, Oerlikons, and Sea Cat.