Q&A · 3:38:53-3:39:18

How would Phantoms and Buccaneers change the Falklands air war?

A full carrier air group could use Phantoms and airborne early warning for fleet defence while Buccaneers attacked forces ashore.

Question

With a larger carrier air group in the Falklands, how would Phantoms and Buccaneers be used?

Short answer

Phantoms and airborne early warning could defend the fleet while Buccaneers struck Argentine forces on the islands.

Notes

A larger carrier air group would divide defensive and offensive work. Airborne early warning aircraft and Phantoms could intercept Argentine attacks before they reached the fleet. Buccaneers could then concentrate on striking Argentine forces on the islands rather than making an airfield attack their main task. The larger air wing would protect the task force while applying heavier air power ashore.