What if the Argentine Navy did not withdraw Veinticinco de Mayo during the Falklands War?
Short answerHMS Splendid probably sinks her and removes the embarked Skyhawks from later operations, especially if the carrier begins launching its strike.
NotesThe discussion identifies HMS Splendid after initially confusing the submarine's name. Alex Clarke's recalled account has Splendid watching the carrier prepare a strike and ready to attack if the aircraft began launching. The exact orders and mix of torpedoes are qualified as his recollection. Veinticinco de Mayo's withdrawal removes the opportunity before the broader attack order arrives. If the carrier remained and was sunk, her embarked Skyhawks would also be lost and unavailable for later attacks. That conclusion concerns the aircraft aboard this ship, rather than every Argentine Skyhawk unit.