What is the primary focus of this article regarding the Falklands War?

This article details the composition and actions of the Argentine air forces during the Falklands War, also known in Spanish as the Guerra de las Malvinas. These forces included units from the Argentine Air Force, Army, Navy, and other services.

What was Argentina's initial strategic approach to the Falklands War, and how did it misinterpret the British response?

Argentina's military dictatorship initially viewed the seizure of the Falklands as a political maneuver to gain diplomatic leverage, not an act of war. Consequently, they were caught off guard by the large-scale British mobilization and the formation of a task force to reclaim the islands.

What were the key limitations and unpreparedness of the Argentine Air Force (FAA) for a long-range naval air campaign against a NATO power?

The Argentine Air Force (FAA) had no prior experience fighting an external enemy since its establishment in 1912 and was neither trained nor equipped for a long-range naval air campaign against a major NATO power. It possessed only two tanker aircraft for its entire air force and navy, and its fighter-bombers, such as the Mirage IIIs and IAI Daggers, lacked aerial refueling capabilities.

How did the ongoing dispute with Chile impact Argentina's military posture and air defense during the Falklands War?

The possibility of an attack from Chile was a significant concern for the Argentine military during the war. The Chilean armed forces had deployed a substantial force to the common border, compelling the FAA to reactivate retired F-86 Sabres to reinforce Argentina's air defenses.

What international support did Argentina receive in terms of aircraft and spare parts during the conflict?

Peru immediately offered its support, including combat missions, which Argentina politely declined. However, Peru and Venezuela later sent crucial aircraft spare parts, and the Brazilian Air Force provided two EMB111 Bandeirantes maritime patrol aircraft to the Argentine Navy. Additionally, ten Peruvian Mirage 5 aircraft with AS-30 missiles arrived in Tandil on June 4, but the war concluded before their deployment.

What was the approximate number of aircraft Argentina possessed at the war's outset, and what operational challenges did their deployment face?

Argentina had approximately 240 planes when the war began, with about half stationed in the interior and along the Chilean border. The long distances from their bases to the Falklands prevented aircraft from utilizing their top speed without risking fuel depletion, and limited their time in the target area to an average of two minutes.

Describe the condition of Argentina's A-4 Skyhawk fleet and the alleged external assistance for its operational status.

Argentina's A-4 Skyhawk attack jets were in very poor condition due to an arms embargo imposed by the United States in 1976, which rendered most airframes unusable. While the involvement of Israel in restoring the A-4s to full operational status has been alleged, it has never been officially confirmed.

What challenges did the Argentine Naval Aviation face during the war, particularly concerning the Super Etendard and Exocet missiles?

The Argentine Naval Aviation was in the midst of transitioning to the Super Etendard, with only five of its anti-ship Exocet missiles delivered before an arms embargo halted further shipments. Furthermore, French engineers had not completed the necessary programming for the missiles to interface with the Etendard's computers, and their recall by France forced Argentine scientists and engineers to develop a solution.

Despite their disadvantages, what was the overall assessment of the Argentine air units' performance by the end of the conflict, including Admiral Sandy Woodward's view?

Despite their disadvantages, Argentine air units bore the brunt of the battle, inflicting significant damage and losses on British naval forces. Their low-flying jet attacks were dramatic and sobering. By the war's end, British forces admired the FAA's spirited conduct, with British Task Force commander Admiral Sandy Woodward stating, 'The Argentine Air Force fought extremely well and we felt a great admiration for what they did.'

What were the main conclusions of the British Operational Research Branch Report regarding the Argentine air arms' campaign?

The British Operational Research Branch Report, declassified in February 2013, concluded that Argentine air arms conducted a 10-week campaign involving air supply, reconnaissance, and engagements with UK forces. It stated that their air forces were not defeated and remained viable, were generally capable and well-organized within their spheres, but were limited in aerial refueling and reconnaissance assets. They were successful in air supply, partially successful in reconnaissance, and inflicted significant attrition on UK naval forces, but achieved no militarily significant success against UK land forces ashore.

How was the Argentine air force command structured during the Falklands War, and who were the key commanders?

The air units were under the Military Junta, led by Brigadier General Basilio Lami Dozo. Below this, key commands included the Air Defence Command under Brigadier Jorge Hughes, the Strategic Air Command under Brigadier Helmuth Weber, and the Southern Air Force under Brigadier Ernesto Crespo. The South Atlantic Military Theatre, a naval command, was led by Vice Admiral Juan Lombardo, which included the Falklands Military Garrison under Brigade General Mario Menéndez, with an Air Component led by Brigadier Luis Castellano.

What were the primary responsibilities of the Air Defence Command and the Strategic Air Command?

The Air Defence Command, led by Brigadier Jorge Hughes, was responsible for the radar network, Mirage IIIEA interceptors, and anti-aircraft defenses on the mainland. The Strategic Air Command, under Brigadier Helmuth Weber, coordinated air assets across the country and had a main role in long-range maritime surveillance using Boeing 707s and C-130 Hercules aircraft.

What was the Southern Air Force's role, and how did the South Atlantic Military Theatre coordinate assets?

The Southern Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Sur), commanded by Brigadier Ernesto Crespo, was the primary organization engaged in combat over the conflict zone. The South Atlantic Military Theatre, a naval command under Vice Admiral Juan Lombardo, coordinated air, surface, and submarine assets in the South Atlantic area, and was initially intended to manage the crisis during the invasion of the islands.

How were Argentine air units deployed to southern facilities, and what measures were taken against potential British/Chilean air strikes or SAS raids?

Argentine air units relocated from their home bases to southern facilities. To counter fears of British or Chilean air strikes and Special Air Service (SAS) raids, Argentine aircraft were dispersed in areas surrounding their southern airfields, including utilizing various sections of national route #3 for this purpose.

What were the strategic distances from key Argentine mainland airbases to Port Stanley Airport, and what impact did this have on attack aircraft?

The distances from mainland airbases to Port Stanley Airport were significant: Trelew (580 nautical miles), Comodoro Rivadavia (480 nautical miles), San Julián (425 nautical miles), Rio Gallegos (435 nautical miles), and Rio Grande (380 nautical miles). These long distances meant Argentine attack aircraft had an average of only two minutes available in the target area before needing to return.

What was the only paved runway in the Falklands, and what was its primary function during the war?

The only paved runway in the Falklands was at Port Stanley Airport. While unsuitable for fast jets, its main role was to maintain the airbridge for supplies and personnel to the mainland.

List the main Argentine airbases on the mainland and the primary aircraft types stationed at each.

Mainland airbases included Ezeiza International Airport (Boeing 707), NAS Almirante Zar in Trelew (B.Mk62 Canberra), AFB Comodoro Rivadavia (KC/C-130 Hercules, Fokker F28, Escuadron Fenix, Mirage IIIEA, FMA IA 58 Pucará, and an air traffic control center), Airfield Puerto San Julián (IAI Dagger, A-4C Skyhawk, and AN/TPS-44 radar), Airfield Puerto Santa Cruz (A-4P Skyhawk), and AFB Rio Gallegos (Mirage IIIEA, A-4P Skyhawk, FMA IA 58 Pucará, Navy Exploration Squadron aircraft, and an air traffic control center), and NAS Almirante Quijada in Río Grande (IAI Dagger, A-4Q Skyhawk, Super Étendard, SP-2H Neptune).

Identify the airfields located on the Falkland Islands and the aircraft types deployed there.

On the Falkland Islands, AFB Puerto Argentino (Port Stanley Airport) hosted FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force), Aermacchi MB.339A (Navy), T-34 Mentor (Navy), helicopters from all services, and an AN/TPS-43 radar with anti-aircraft defenses. AFB Condor (Goose Green grass airfield) had FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force) and anti-aircraft cannons. NAS Calderon (Pebble Island grass airfield) had FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force), T-34 Mentor (Navy), and Short Skyvan (Coast Guard).

What aircraft were deployed on the aircraft carrier ARA Veinticinco de Mayo during its operational period?

From April 2 to May 3, the aircraft carrier ARA Veinticinco de Mayo deployed McDonnell Douglas A-4Q Skyhawk, Grumman S-2E Tracker, and Sikorsky S-61D-4 helicopters.

What types of transport and reconnaissance aircraft were part of the Argentine Air Force's 1st and 7th Air Brigades?

The 1st Air Brigade included 7 Lockheed C-130H Hercules (with 1 lost), 2 Lockheed KC-130H Hercules Tankers, 3 Boeing 707-320C, 6 Fokker F-28-1000C, and 12 Fokker F-27-400M. The 7th Air Brigade had 3 Lockheed C-130E Hercules, 2 Boeing CH-47C Chinook, and 2 Bell 212 helicopters.

Which aircraft were primarily used for bombing and photographic reconnaissance by the Argentine Air Force's 2nd Air Brigade?

The 2nd Air Brigade utilized 8 English Electric B.62 Canberra aircraft for bombing missions (with 2 lost) and 2 Learjet 35A aircraft for photographic reconnaissance (with 1 lost).

What attack aircraft comprised the Argentine Air Force's 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th Air Brigades, and what were their notable characteristics or deployments?

The 3rd Air Brigade deployed 24 FMA IA 58A Pucará aircraft to the Falkland Islands (with 13 lost) and 1 to Comodoro Rivadavia (with 1 lost). The 4th Air Brigade had 16 McDonnell Douglas A-4C Skyhawk aircraft (with 9 lost). The 5th Air Brigade operated 30 McDonnell Douglas A-4B Skyhawk aircraft (with 10 lost). The 6th Air Brigade comprised 27 Israel Aircraft Industries Dagger aircraft (with 11 lost). The 8th Air Brigade had 16 Dassault Mirage IIIEA aircraft (with 2 lost) and 1 DHC-6-200.

Detail the composition of the Argentine Naval Aviation's attack and fighter squadrons.

The Argentine Naval Aviation (COAN) included the 1st Naval Air Attack Squadron with 6 Aermacchi MB.339A aircraft (2 lost), the 2nd Naval Air Fighter/Attack Squadron with 4 Dassault Super Étendard aircraft (one of which, sn. 3-A-201, was cannibalized for spare parts), and the 3rd Naval Air Fighter/Attack Squadron with 8 McDonnell Douglas A-4Q Skyhawk aircraft (3 lost).

What reconnaissance, anti-submarine, and training aircraft were part of the Argentine Naval Aviation?

The Naval Air Antisubmarine Squadron operated 6 Grumman S-2E Tracker aircraft. The Naval Air Training Squadron used 4 Beechcraft T-34C-1 Turbo Mentor aircraft (all 4 lost). The Naval Air Exploration Squadron had 2 Lockheed SP-2H Neptune aircraft, both of which were retired by the end of May due to airframe attrition.

What types of helicopters and transport aircraft were operated by the Argentine Naval Aviation?

The 1st Naval Air Helicopter Squadron operated 10 Aérospatiale Alouette AI03 SA361B (1 lost), 2 Lynx Mk.23 (1 lost), and 1 Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander. The 2nd Naval Air Helicopter Squadron had 5 Sikorsky S-61D-4 helicopters. Naval Air Transport Squadrons operated 3 Lockheed L-188PF Electra, 3 Fokker F-28-3000C, and 2 P-95 Bandeirulha aircraft.

What helicopters were part of the Argentine Army Aviation's 601 Army Aviation Battalion?

The 601 Army Aviation Battalion of the Argentine Army Aviation operated 2 Boeing CH-47C Chinook (1 lost), 3 Agusta A109A (1 lost), 9 Bell UH-1H Iroquois, and 6 Aérospatiale Puma SA330L helicopters (all 6 lost).

What aircraft did the Argentine Coast Guard's Aviation Service operate?

The Aviation Service of the Argentine Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval Argentina) operated 1 Aérospatiale Puma SA330L helicopter and 5 Short Skyvan 3M-200 aircraft (2 lost).

What was the Escuadrón Fénix, and what types of civilian aircraft did it utilize?

Escuadrón Fénix was a unit comprising 77 civilian business planes pressed into service. These included a variety of aircraft such as Agusta 109C, Aero Commander models (500B, 500S/Shrike Commander, 680FL Grand Commander, AC690A, AC690B, AC690C), Bell models (205A-1, 206, 212), MBB Bo 105A, Cessna Citation models (500 Citation I, 501 Citation I, 550 Citation II), Douglas C-47B-15-DK, DC-3, Gates Learjet models (24, 24A, 24D, 25D, 35, 35A, 36A, 36C), Hawker Siddeley HS.125-700B, IA50G2 Guaraní II, Mitsubishi MU-2B-26A, MD 500C, Piper Aerostar models (600A, TS600, TS601A, TS601B, TS601P), SA226-T Merlin IIIB, Sikorsky S-61N, and S-58T.

Which commercial airlines provided auxiliary aircraft, and for what purposes?

Aerolíneas Argentinas and Austral airlines contributed auxiliary aircraft, specifically 2 Boeing 737-200 and 1 BAC 1-11-515FB, which were used for airlift operations to Patagonia and Port Stanley.

What were the primary machine guns and autocannons used by Argentine aircraft?

Argentine aircraft were armed with various machine guns and autocannons, including 7.62 mm FM M2-20 on Pucaras, 20 mm Colt Mk.12 Cannon on A-4s, 20 mm Hispano-Suiza HS.804 Cannon on Pucaras, and 30 mm DEFA cannon on IAI Daggers and Mirage IIIEA aircraft.

What types of unguided rockets were employed by Argentine air forces?

Unguided rockets used by Argentine air forces included ZUNI 127 mm and 70 mm rockets on MB.339s, and 105 mm rockets on Pucaras.

What air-to-air missiles were available to Argentine aircraft, and which units used them?

Air-to-air missiles included the AIM-9B Sidewinder short-range IR, used only by Navy A-4Q Skyhawks up to May 1. The Rafael Shafrir 2 short-range IR missile was used by IAI Daggers and A-4C on May 1. The Matra R550 Magic short-range IR missile was received on April 15 for Mirage IIIEA aircraft, and the Matra R530 short-range semi-active radar and IR missile was also used by Mirage IIIEA.

What air-to-surface missiles were used or intended for use by Argentine forces?

The Aérospatiale AM.39 Exocet anti-ship missile was used, with 5 units deployed on Super Étendards. Additionally, AS 30 air-surface missiles, supplied by the Peruvian Air Force, arrived at Tandil AFB at the end of May but were not used before the war concluded.

Describe the significant issue encountered with Argentine unguided gravity bombs and how it was eventually addressed.

A significant issue with Argentine unguided gravity bombs was that thirteen bombs hit British ships without detonating. This was because they were dropped from very low altitude, leaving insufficient time in the air for them to arm themselves. The problem was reportedly resolved by June with the acquisition of new Kappa fuzes from Spain.

What specific types of unguided gravity bombs were used by Argentine aircraft?

Argentine aircraft utilized several types of unguided gravity bombs: US-built Mark 82 Snake Eye (500 lb / 227 kg) on A-4Q aircraft, British-built '1000 lb' (450 kg) bombs on A-4B/C, IAI Daggers, and Canberras, Spain-built Expal BR/BRP 250 kg bombs on A-4B/C and IAI Daggers, and Argentine-built PG 125 kg bombs on Pucaras. Napalm was also used by Pucaras.

Summarize the attack missions performed by A-4 Skyhawks, Canberras, and Daggers, including sortie numbers and key operational challenges.

A-4 Skyhawks conducted 133 sorties by A-4B and 86 by A-4C, flying with unreliable ejection seats due to a US embargo, and were highly dependent on two KC-130 tankers. Canberras performed 46 bombing sorties against ground targets from Trelew. Daggers flew 153 sorties against naval/ground targets but lacked aerial refueling capacity, limiting their maneuvering time over the islands to less than 10 minutes and making them vulnerable to Sea Harrier interceptions, leading to 7 losses. They later used improvised chaff dispensers.

What was the total number of attack sorties from the mainland, and what proportion were intercepted or shot down?

A total of 430 attack sorties were launched from the mainland. Of these, 18 aircraft were intercepted by Sea Harriers, and another 14 were shot down by anti-aircraft defenses.

Describe the 'other missions' performed by Mirage IIIEA, Boeing 707, and Embraer P-95 Bandeirulha aircraft.

Mirage IIIEA aircraft performed 58 decoy sorties, particularly successful during the June 8 attacks on British landing ships, and some were withdrawn to protect the mainland from Vulcan strikes. Unarmed Boeing 707 airliners conducted 54 cargo flights and 61 reconnaissance/surveillance missions, locating the British Task Force on April 21, but ceased further attempts after evading Sea Dart missiles. Two Embraer P-95 Bandeirulha aircraft, incorporated into naval aviation on May 21, flew 39 maritime patrol sorties from Rio Gallegos before being returned to the Brazilian Air Force on June 24.

What were the primary roles of IA 58 Pucará aircraft, and what was their fate on the islands?

IA 58 Pucará aircraft performed reconnaissance and ground attack missions from airfields on the Falklands and surveillance of the Patagonian coast from southern Argentine bases. Most island-based Pucarás were destroyed on the ground, often due to special forces actions, though one did shoot down a Royal Marines Westland Scout during the Battle of Goose Green.

What critical support and reconnaissance missions did C-130 Hercules and KC-130 Hercules aircraft undertake?

C-130 Hercules aircraft performed 33 night flights to BAM Puerto Argentino, transporting cargo such as commandos, cannons, an improvised land-based Exocet launcher, a Roland SAM system, and a RASIT radar replacement. They also evacuated 263 wounded and a British Prisoner of War. After May 15, they took over dangerous daylight naval target search missions, leading to one C-130 being shot down by a Sea Harrier. A Hercules also hit the British tanker British Wye with bombs. KC-130 Hercules aircraft provided crucial aerial refueling for A-4s and Super Étendards, including battle-damaged fighters.

How did the 1st Air Brigade Construction Group contribute to the air campaign, particularly concerning Port Stanley airbase?

The 1st Air Brigade Construction Group was responsible for maintaining the operability of Port Stanley airbase. Despite enduring 237 bombs, 1,200 shells from Royal Navy gunline, and 16 missiles, the airport was never entirely out of action. A tactic was employed where piles of dirt were placed on the runway during the day to create the illusion of damage, though British forces were aware of its continued use by C-130s.

Which British ships were successfully sunk by Argentine air forces during the conflict?

Argentine air forces successfully sank HMS Sheffield, HMS Coventry, HMS Ardent, HMS Antelope, RFA Sir Galahad, Atlantic Conveyor, and a Landing Craft Utility (Foxtrot Four from HMS Fearless).

Which British ships sustained damage from Argentine air attacks?

British ships damaged by Argentine air attacks included HMS Glasgow, HMS Antrim, HMS Brilliant, HMS Broadsword, HMS Alacrity, HMS Arrow, HMS Argonaut, HMS Plymouth, RFA Sir Bedivere, RFA Sir Lancelot, RFA Sir Tristram, and RFA Stromness.

What British aircraft were destroyed by Argentine forces, and under what circumstances?

Argentine forces destroyed 1 Scout helicopter, 3 Chinook HC.1 helicopters (aboard Atlantic Conveyor), 3 Westland Lynx HAS.2 helicopters (aboard Ardent, Coventry, and Atlantic Conveyor), 6 Westland Wessex HU.5 helicopters (aboard Atlantic Conveyor), and 1 Westland Sea King HC.4 helicopter (at Glamorgan).

What were the human losses sustained by the Argentine Army aviation, Naval aviation, and Air Force, including a breakdown for the Air Force?

Human losses included 6 from Army aviation, 4 from Naval aviation, and 55 from the Argentine Air Force. The Air Force casualties comprised 29 pilots, 12 air crew (6 on a C-130H, 4 on a Learjet LJ-35A, and 2 Canberra navigators), and 14 ground crew.

How many IAI Dagger A aircraft were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Eleven IAI Dagger A aircraft were lost in air combat: 9 by Sea Harrier, 1 by a Sea Wolf missile from HMS Broadsword, and 1 by a Rapier SAM.

How many A-4B Skyhawk aircraft were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Ten A-4B Skyhawk aircraft were lost in air combat: 3 by Sea Harrier, 3 by Sea Wolf missiles from HMS Brilliant, 1 by Sea Dart, 1 by AAA from HMS Fearless, 1 by 20mm cannon fire from HMS Antelope, and 1 due to friendly fire.

How many A-4C Skyhawk aircraft were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Seven A-4C Skyhawk aircraft were lost in air combat: 2 by Sea Harrier, 3 by Sea Dart, 1 by SeaCat from HMS Yarmouth, and 1 by a combination of SeaCat/Rapier/Blowpipe missiles.

How many FMA IA 58 Pucará aircraft were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Three FMA IA 58 Pucará aircraft were lost in air combat: 1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by a Stinger SAM, and 1 by small arms fire from 2 PARA.

How many A-4Q Skyhawk Navy aircraft, Mirage IIIEA, B.Mk62 Canberra, C-130E Hercules, Aermacchi MB.339A Navy, and Learjet 35A aircraft were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Three A-4Q Skyhawk Navy aircraft were lost by Sea Harrier. Two Mirage IIIEA aircraft were lost (1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by friendly fire). Two B.Mk62 Canberra aircraft were lost (1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by Sea Dart). One C-130E Hercules was lost by Sea Harrier. One Aermacchi MB.339A Navy aircraft was lost by Blowpipe. One Learjet 35A was lost by a Sea Dart SAM.

How many Puma SA330L Army helicopters were lost in air combat, and what were the causes?

Four Puma SA330L Army helicopters were lost in air combat: 1 to small arms fire during the Invasion of South Georgia on April 3, 1 by a Sea Dart SAM on May 9, 1 crashed due to Harrier wingtip vortices on May 23, and 1 to a FIM-92 Stinger missile on May 30.

Falklands War Order Of Battle Argentine Air Forces Wiki: Wings of the South: Argentina's Air Forces in the Falklands War

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Background

Unprepared for Conflict

Despite initiating the Falklands War, Argentina's military dictatorship had not formulated a comprehensive defense plan for the islands. The seizure was primarily viewed as a political maneuver to gain diplomatic leverage, not as an act of war. Consequently, the British response, involving a large-scale mobilization and a task force, caught Argentina by surprise.

Air Force Limitations

The Argentine Air Force (FAA), established in 1912, lacked experience in external conflicts, particularly long-range naval air campaigns against a major NATO power. Its training, tactics, and equipment were primarily oriented towards a potential conflict with Chile, stemming from disputes like the Beagle conflict. Key limitations included:

Only two tanker aircraft for the entire air force and navy.
Fighter-bombers like Mirage IIIs and IAI Daggers lacked aerial refueling capabilities.
The A-4 Skyhawk fleet was in poor condition due to a 1976 U.S. arms embargo.

International Support

During the conflict, Argentina received crucial international assistance:

Peru offered immediate support, including combat missions, which Argentina politely declined. However, Peru and Venezuela supplied critical aircraft spare parts.
The Brazilian Air Force provided two EMB111 Bandeirantes maritime patrol aircraft to the Argentine Navy.
Ten Peruvian Mirage 5 aircraft with AS-30 missiles arrived in Tandil on June 4, though the war concluded before their deployment.
Israeli Aircraft Industries technicians continued their work under the 1979 IAI Daggers contract throughout the conflict.

Admiration for Argentine Pilots

Despite significant disadvantages, Argentine air units bore the brunt of the battle, inflicting substantial damage and losses on British naval forces. Their low-flying attacks became iconic images of the war. Admiral Sandy Woodward, the British Task Force commander, expressed great admiration for their spirited conduct, stating, "The Argentine Air Force fought extremely well and we felt a great admiration for what they did." A declassified British Operational Research Branch Report noted that Argentine air forces were "not beaten and remained as a viable force at the end of hostilities."

Command

Chain of Command

The air units involved in the Falklands War operated under a structured chain of command, reflecting the multi-service nature of the Argentine military effort:

Military Junta: Led by Brigadier General Basilio Lami Dozo, the highest authority.
Air Defence Command (Comando Aéreo de Defensa): Brigadier Jorge Hughes oversaw the radar network, Mirage IIIEA interceptors, and mainland anti-aircraft defenses.
Strategic Air Command (Comando Aéreo Estratégico): Brigadier Helmuth Weber coordinated air assets nationwide, with a primary role in long-range maritime surveillance using Boeing 707s and C-130 Hercules.
Southern Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Sur - FAS): Brigadier Ernesto Crespo commanded the main combat organization operating over the conflict zone.
South Atlantic Military Theatre (Teatro Operaciones Atlantico Sur): Vice Admiral Juan Lombardo led this naval command, responsible for coordinating air, surface, and submarine assets in the South Atlantic. Initially, it was the sole organization managing the crisis during the invasion.
Falklands Military Garrison (Guarnicion Militar Malvinas): Brigade General Mario Menéndez (Army) commanded the ground forces on the islands.
Air Component (Componente Aéreo): Brigadier Luis Castellano led the air assets within the Falklands Military Garrison.

Deployment

Strategic Relocation

Argentine air units were strategically relocated from their home bases to southern facilities to be closer to the conflict zone. To mitigate fears of British or Chilean air strikes and SAS raids, aircraft were dispersed across areas surrounding these southern airfields, including sections of national route #3.

The significant distances from mainland bases to the Falkland Islands (e.g., Rio Grande: 380 nautical miles / 700 km to Port Stanley Airport) meant that attack aircraft had an average of only two minutes in the target area, severely limiting their operational flexibility and speed.

Key Airbases and Units

Below is a summary of the primary airbases and the units deployed to them:

Ezeiza International Airport, Buenos Aires: Boeing 707.
NAS Almirante Zar, Trelew, Chubut Province: B.Mk62 Canberra.
AFB Comodoro Rivadavia, Chubut Province (FAS command site): KC/C-130 Hercules, Fokker F28, Escuadron Fenix, Mirage IIIEA, FMA IA 58 Pucará, CIC Comodoro (air traffic control).
Airfield Puerto San Julián, Santa Cruz Province: IAI Dagger ("La Marinete" Squadron), A-4C Skyhawk, Cardion AN/TPS-44 radar with GADA 601 Army.
Airfield Puerto Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Province: A-4P Skyhawk.
AFB Rio Gallegos, Santa Cruz Province: Mirage IIIEA, A-4P Skyhawk, FMA IA 58 Pucará, Navy Exploration Squadron (S-2E Trackers, 2 leased Brazilian EMB111 Bandeirantes after May 13), CIC Gallegos (air traffic control).
NAS Almirante Quijada, Río Grande, Tierra del Fuego: IAI Dagger ("Las Avutardas Salvajes" Squadron), A-4Q Skyhawk, Super Étendard, SP-2H Neptune.
AFB Puerto Argentino (Port Stanley Airport), Falkland Islands: FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force), Aermacchi MB.339A (Navy), T-34 Mentor (Navy), Helicopters from all services, CIC Malvinas (AN/TPS-43 radar and anti-aircraft defenses).
AFB Condor, Goose Green grass airfield, Falkland Islands: FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force), Anti-aircraft cannons (Air Force).
NAS Calderon, Pebble Island grass airfield, Falkland Islands: FMA IA 58 Pucará (Air Force), T-34 Mentor (Navy), Short Skyvan (Coast Guard).
Aircraft carrier ARA Veinticinco de Mayo (April 2 to May 3): McDonnell Douglas A-4Q Skyhawk, Grumman S-2E Tracker, Sikorsky S-61D-4.

Units

The following details the aircraft engaged in combat (bold numbers) and those lost during the war (numbers in brackets) across the various Argentine air arms.

Argentine Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Argentina)

1st Air Brigade:
- Lockheed C-130H Hercules: 7 (1)
- Lockheed KC-130H Hercules Tanker: 2
- Boeing 707-320C: 3
- Fokker F-28-1000C: 6
- Fokker F-27-400M: 12
2nd Air Brigade:
- English Electric B.62 Canberra: 8 (2)
- Grupo Aerofotográfico — Learjet 35A: 2 (1)
3rd Air Brigade:
- FMA IA 58A Pucará (Falkland Islands): 24 (13)
- FMA IA 58A Pucará (Comodoro Rivadavia): 1 (1)
4th Air Brigade:
- McDonnell Douglas A-4C Skyhawk: 16 (9)
5th Air Brigade:
- McDonnell Douglas A-4B Skyhawk: 30 (10)
6th Air Brigade:
- Israel Aircraft Industries Dagger: 27 (11)
7th Air Brigade:
- Lockheed C-130E Hercules: 3
- Boeing CH-47C Chinook: 2
- Bell 212: 2
8th Air Brigade:
- Dassault Mirage IIIEA: 16 (2)
- DHC-6-200: 1

Argentine Navy (Comando de Aviación Naval Argentina — COAN)

1st Naval Air Attack Squadron:
- Aermacchi MB.339A: 6 (2)
2nd Naval Air Fighter/Attack Squadron:
- Dassault Super Étendard: 4 (sn. 3-A-201 was cannibalized for spare parts)
3rd Naval Air Fighter/Attack Squadron:
- McDonnell Douglas A-4Q Skyhawk: 8 (3)
Naval Air Antisubmarine Squadron:
- Grumman S-2E Tracker: 6
Naval Air Training Squadron:
- Beechcraft T-34C-1 Turbo Mentor: 4 (4)
Naval Air Exploration Squadron:
- Lockheed SP-2H Neptune: 2 (both retired by end of May due to airframe attrition)
1st Naval Air Helicopter Squadron:
- Aérospatiale Alouette AI03 SA361B: 10 (1)
- Lynx Mk.23: 2 (1)
- Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander: 1
2nd Naval Air Helicopter Squadron:
- Sikorsky S-61D-4: 5
Naval Air Transport Squadrons:
- Lockheed L-188PF Electra: 3
- Fokker F-28-3000C: 3
- P-95 Bandeirulha: 2

Argentine Army (Comando de Aviación del Ejército Argentino)

601 Army Aviation Battalion:
- Boeing CH-47C Chinook: 2 (1)
- Agusta A109A: 3 (1)
- Bell UH-1H Iroquois: 9
- Aérospatiale Puma SA330L: 6 (6)

Argentine Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval Argentina)

Aviation Service:
- Aérospatiale Puma SA330L: 1
- Short Skyvan 3M-200: 5 (2)

Argentine Auxiliary Aircraft (Escuadrón Fénix & Airlines)

The Escuadrón Fénix comprised 77 civilian business planes, adapted for military support roles. Additionally, commercial airlines contributed aircraft for logistical support.

Escuadrón Fénix:

Agusta 109C: 1
Aero Commander 500B: 2
Aero Commander 500S/Shrike Commander: 1
Aero Commander 680FL Grand Commander: 1
Aero Commander AC690A: 2
Aero Commander AC690B: 2
Aero Commander AC690C: 1
Bell 205A-1: 1
Bell 206: 1
Bell 212: 1
MBB Bo 105A: 4
Cessna500 Citation I: 4
Cessna501 Citation I: 1
Cessna550 Citation II: 1
C-47B-15-DK: 2
DC-3: 2
Gates Learjet24: 1
Gates Learjet24A: 2
Gates Learjet24D: 1
Gates Learjet25D: 3
Gates Learjet35: 4
Gates Learjet35A: 1
Gates Learjet36A: 1
Gates Learjet36C: 1
Hawker Siddeley HS.125-700B: 1
IA50G2 Guaraní II: 1
Mitsubishi MU-2B-26A: 4
MD 500C: 3
Piper Aerostar600A: 11
Piper Aerostar TS600: 5
Piper Aerostar TS601A: 1
Piper Aerostar TS601B: 1
Piper Aerostar TS601P: 1
SA226-T Merlin IIIB: 1
Sikorsky S-61N: 2
Sikorsky S-58T: 2

Aerolíneas Argentinas and Austral airlines:

Boeing 737-200: 2
BAC 1-11-515FB: 1 (used for airlift to Patagonia and Port Stanley)

Armament

Guns and Cannons

Argentine aircraft were equipped with a range of machine guns and autocannons for close-range engagement and ground attack:

7.62 mm FM M2-20: Primarily on Pucarás.
20 mm Colt Mk.12 Cannon: Standard armament for A-4 Skyhawks.
20 mm Hispano-Suiza HS.804 Cannon: Also found on Pucarás.
30 mm DEFA cannon: Utilized by IAI Daggers and Mirage IIIEA fighters.

Unguided Rockets

For ground support and light attack roles, various unguided rockets were employed:

ZUNI 127 mm: Used by MB.339s.
70 mm: Also deployed from MB339s.
105 mm: A common munition for Pucarás.

Missiles

The missile arsenal included both air-to-air and air-to-surface capabilities, though with significant limitations due to embargoes and technical challenges.

Air-to-Air Missiles:

AIM-9B Sidewinder: Short-range IR missile, exclusively used by Navy A-4Q Skyhawks up to May 1.
Rafael Shafrir 2: Short-range IR missile, used by IAI Daggers and A-4C on May 1.
Matra R550 Magic: Short-range IR missile, received on April 15 for Mirage IIIEA.
Matra R530: Short-range semi-active radar and IR missile, used by Mirage IIIEA.

Air-to-Surface Missiles:

Aérospatiale AM.39 Exocet: Anti-ship missile, with only 5 units available for Super Étendards due to an arms embargo. French engineers' withdrawal meant Argentine personnel had to rapidly integrate these missiles with aircraft computers.
AS 30 air-surface missiles: Supplied by the Peruvian Air Force, arriving in Tandil at the end of May, but not used before the war concluded.

Unguided Gravity Bombs

A critical issue early in the conflict was the failure of gravity bombs to detonate upon impact with British ships. This was attributed to very low-altitude drops, which did not allow sufficient time for the fuzes to arm. The problem was reportedly resolved by June with new fuzes (Kappa) acquired from Spain.

US built Mark 82 Snake Eye (500 lb / 227 kg): Used by A-4Q Skyhawks.
British built "1000 lb" (450 kg): Carried by A-4B/C Skyhawks, IAI Daggers, and Canberras.
Spain built Expal BR/BRP 250 kg: Used by A-4B/C Skyhawks and IAI Daggers.
Argentine built PG 125 kg: Employed by Pucarás.
Napalm: Used by Pucarás.

Air Campaign

The Argentine air forces engaged in a diverse range of missions, from direct attack sorties to critical logistical and reconnaissance operations, often under challenging conditions.

Attack Missions

Argentine attack aircraft conducted numerous sorties against British naval and ground targets, demonstrating remarkable bravery despite significant operational constraints.

System	Observations
A-4 Skyhawk	133 sorties by A-4B and 86 by A-4C. Pilots flew with unreliable ejection seats due to the 1977 US embargo. Naval A-4Q performed 12 sorties. These aircraft were highly dependent on the two available KC-130 tankers, which severely limited the number of simultaneous attacks.
Canberra	46 bombing sorties against ground targets, operating from Trelew to avoid congestion on closer southern airfields.
Dagger	153 sorties against naval/ground targets by two squadrons. Their lack of aerial refueling capacity severely impacted performance, allowing no chance for maneuvering over the islands. They were forced to fly the shortest flight path, leaving less than 10 minutes to locate targets. The British discovered their approach corridor, leading to 7 aircraft being shot down by Sea Harriers. By late May, Daggers began deploying improvised chaff dispensers (aluminum strips in airbrakes).
Total Sorties:	A total of 430 attack sorties were launched from the mainland. Of these, 18 aircraft were intercepted by Sea Harriers, and another 14 were shot down by anti-aircraft defenses.

Other Missions

Beyond direct attacks, Argentine air assets performed vital roles in reconnaissance, air defense, logistical support, and even deception.

System	Observations
Mirage IIIEA	58 sorties, primarily providing decoys for strike units, with notable success during the June 8 attacks on British landing ships. Many were withdrawn from island operations to protect the mainland against potential Vulcan strikes. Their lesser internal fuel capacity, compared to Daggers, limited their escort role.
Boeing 707	The unarmed airliner conducted 54 cargo flights and 61 reconnaissance and surveillance missions. They located the British Task Force for the first time on April 21. After a Sea Harrier interception on May 22 and evading four Sea Dart missiles on another occasion, further reconnaissance attempts were deemed too risky. A casual encounter with an unarmed British Nimrod also occurred.
Embraer P-95 Bandeirulha	Two aircraft were incorporated into naval aviation on May 21, flying 39 maritime patrol sorties from Rio Gallegos airbase before being returned to the Brazilian Air Force on June 24.
IA 58 Pucará	Performed reconnaissance and ground attack missions from Falklands airfields and Patagonian coast surveillance. Most island-based Pucarás were destroyed on the ground by special forces. They successfully shot down a Royal Marines Westland Scout during the Battle of Goose Green.
Fenix Squadron	Conducted 126 decoying and 52 reconnaissance sorties. They were extensively used as communication relays and pathfinder flights, guiding combat jets with their superior navigation systems.
C-130 Hercules	Executed 33 night flights to BAM Puerto Argentino (Port Stanley) in May/June, acting as blockade runners. Cargo included 602 Army Commandos Coy, 155mm CITEFA cannons, an improvised land-based Exocet launcher, a Roland SAM system, and a RASIT radar replacement. They evacuated 263 wounded and one British PoW. From May 15, they took over dangerous daylight naval target searches after the SP-2H Neptune's retirement, leading to one Hercules being shot down by a Sea Harrier on June 1. On May 29, a Hercules reportedly hit the British tanker British Wye with bombs north of South Georgia (not officially recognized by the FAA).
KC-130 Hercules	Provided crucial aerial refueling sorties for A-4s and Super Étendards, including for battle-damaged fighters.
Fokker F-28 (Navy)	Performed 15 night flights to BAM Puerto Argentino in May/June as blockade runners.
Army Aviation	Conducted 796 helicopter flights on the islands, providing essential transport and support.
1st Air Brigade Construction Group (Air Force)	Responsible for maintaining Port Stanley airbase's operability. Despite 237 bombs, 1,200 shells, and 16 missiles, the airport remained operational. Craters were often deliberately created earth heaps to deceive British intelligence into believing the runway was damaged, though the British were aware of C-130 use.

Success

Despite facing a technologically superior adversary and significant logistical challenges, Argentine air forces achieved notable successes against the British Task Force.

Description	Notes
Ships Sunk	HMS Sheffield, HMS Coventry, HMS Ardent, HMS Antelope, RFA Sir Galahad, Atlantic Conveyor, plus a Landing Craft Utility ("Foxtrot Four" from Fearless).
Ships Damaged	HMS Glasgow, HMS Antrim, HMS Brilliant, HMS Broadsword, HMS Alacrity, HMS Arrow, HMS Argonaut, HMS Plymouth, RFA Sir Bedivere, RFA Sir Lancelot, RFA Sir Tristram, RFA Stromness.
Aircraft Destroyed	1 Scout helicopter shot down. 3 Chinook HC.1 destroyed aboard Atlantic Conveyor on May 25. 3 Westland Lynx HAS.2 destroyed aboard Ardent on May 21, Coventry and Atlantic Conveyor on May 25. 6 Westland Wessex HU.5 lost aboard Atlantic Conveyor on May 25. 1 Westland Sea King HC.4 at Glamorgan on June 12.

Losses

The Falklands War exacted a heavy toll on Argentine air forces, both in terms of personnel and aircraft, highlighting the intensity of the conflict.

Human Casualties

The human cost of the air campaign was significant across all branches of the Argentine military aviation:

6 Army Aviation personnel.
4 Naval Aviation personnel.
55 Argentine Air Force members, including:
- 29 pilots.
- 12 air crew (6 on C-130H shot down June 1, 4 on Learjet LJ-35A shot down June 7, and 2 Canberra navigators).
- 14 Ground crew.

Aircraft Lost in Air Combat

Argentine strike aircraft primarily relied on cannon fire, with limited air-to-air missile capabilities. The following table details aircraft losses in aerial engagements:

Quantity	Aircraft Type	Cause of Loss
11	IAI Dagger A	9 by Sea Harrier, 1 by Sea Wolf (HMS Broadsword), 1 by SAM Rapier.
10	A-4B Skyhawk	3 by Sea Harrier, 3 by Sea Wolf (HMS Brilliant), 1 by Sea Dart, 1 by AAA (HMS Fearless), 1 by 20mm cannon fire (HMS Antelope), 1 by friendly fire.
7	A-4C Skyhawk	2 by Sea Harrier, 3 by Sea Dart, 1 by SeaCat (HMS Yarmouth), 1 by combination SeaCat/Rapier/Blowpipe.
3	FMA IA 58 Pucará	1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by SAM Stinger, 1 by small arms fire (2 PARA).
3	A-4Q Skyhawk (Navy)	3 by Sea Harrier. (One was damaged by 30mm cannon fire, attempted to land at Port Stanley, but the undercarriage was inoperative, and the pilot ejected.)
2	Mirage IIIEA	1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by friendly fire.
2	B.Mk62 Canberra	1 by Sea Harrier, 1 by Sea Dart.
1	C-130E Hercules	1 by Sea Harrier.
1	Aermacchi MB.339A (Navy)	1 by Blowpipe.
1	Learjet 35A	1 by SAM Sea Dart.
4	Puma SA330L (Army)	1 to small arms fire (Invasion of South Georgia, April 3), 1 by Sea Dart SAM (May 9), 1 crashed due to Harrier wingtip vortices (May 23), 1 to a FIM-92 Stinger missile (May 30).

Total destroyed in the air: 45 aircraft.

Aircraft Lost by Other Causes

Beyond direct combat, aircraft were lost due to ground attacks, accidents, or were captured.

Destroyed on the Ground:

9 FMA IA 58 Pucará
1 Agusta A109 (Army)
1 Boeing Ch-47C Chinook (Army)
2 Aérospatiale Puma SA330L (Army)
4 Beechcraft T-34 Mentor (Navy)
2 Skyvan 3-M (Coast Guard)
2 Bell UH-1H Iroquois (Army)

Captured After the War:

11 FMA IA 58 Pucará
2 Agusta A109 (Army)
7 Bell UH-1H Iroquois (Army)
1 Boeing CH-47C Chinook (Army)
1 Aérospatiale Puma SA330L (Coast Guard)
3 Aermacchi MB.339A (Navy)
2 Bell 212

Lost with ARA General Belgrano:

1 Aérospatiale Alouette AI03 (Navy)

Flying Accidents in the War Zone:

1 Westland Lynx HAS.Mk.23 (Navy) — May 2, hit ARA Santísima Trinidad.
2 FMA IA 58 Pucará — May 28, hit ground (one recovered in 1986); May 24. (One Pucará was also lost over the Atlantic on a reconnaissance mission from Comodoro Rivadavia).
1 Aermacchi MB.339A (Navy) — May 3, bad weather crash.
2 McDonnell Douglas A-4C Skyhawk — May 9, South Jason Island.

Total lost by other causes: 55 aircraft.

Total Aircraft Losses

In total, the Argentine air forces sustained significant losses throughout the Falklands War:

75 fixed-wing aircraft
25 helicopters

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References

According to Aeroespacio, Issue 520: "hacia el 15 Abr se producÃa la recepciÃ³n de los misiles Matra 550 Magic adquiridos tiempo antes" ("towards April 15th the Matra 550 Magic missiles bought time ago were received")

According to Globalsecurity.org (DWF):"As a result of these heavy losses...it was decided to pull the Mirage III's back to the mainland to stand alert for a possible Vulcan attack."

According to Globalsecurity.org (HJA):"Finally, the bombing raids caused the Argentines to fear an air attack on the mainland, causing them to retain some Mirage aircraft and Roland missiles for defense."

SN: AE-505, May 9, during search for Narwal trawler; fatalities: 1st Lt. Fiorito, 1st Lt. Buschiazzo, Sarg Dimotta.

According to www.naval-history.net/F64argaircraftlost.htm a PucarÃ¡ was lost over the Atlantic on a reconnaissance mission from Comodoro Rivadavia

Los Angeles times, May 27 1982

"Two A-4B Skyhawks warplanes of the Grupo 5 link up...after topping up their tanks from a KC-130H tanker." page 62 in Air War in the Falklands 1982, 2001

Battle Atlas of the Falklands War 1982 â British ships lost & damaged.

Avioned Brasileros en el conflicto del Atlantico Sur

A full list of references for this article are available at the Falklands War order of battle: Argentine air forces Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional military analysis or historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for in-depth academic research, official military records, or consultation with qualified historians and defense analysts. Always refer to primary sources and scholarly works for comprehensive understanding. Never disregard professional academic or military analysis because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Wings of the South

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Background 📜

🇦🇷 Unprepared for Conflict

✈️ Air Force Limitations

🤝 International Support

💪 Admiration for Argentine Pilots

Command 🏛️

🔗 Chain of Command

Deployment 📍

🗺️ Strategic Relocation

✈️ Key Airbases and Units

Units 🪖

🇦🇷 Argentine Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Argentina)

⚓ Argentine Navy (Comando de Aviación Naval Argentina — COAN)

🪖 Argentine Army (Comando de Aviación del Ejército Argentino)

🌊 Argentine Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval Argentina)

civile Argentine Auxiliary Aircraft (Escuadrón Fénix & Airlines)

Escuadrón Fénix:

Aerolíneas Argentinas and Austral airlines:

Armament 💣

🔫 Guns and Cannons

🚀 Unguided Rockets

🎯 Missiles

Air-to-Air Missiles:

Air-to-Surface Missiles:

💥 Unguided Gravity Bombs

Air Campaign ⚔️

🚀 Attack Missions

📡 Other Missions

Success 🏆

Losses 💔

😔 Human Casualties

💥 Aircraft Lost in Air Combat

🔥 Aircraft Lost by Other Causes

Destroyed on the Ground:

Captured After the War:

Lost with ARA General Belgrano:

Flying Accidents in the War Zone:

📉 Total Aircraft Losses

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background

Unprepared for Conflict

Air Force Limitations

International Support

Admiration for Argentine Pilots

Command

Chain of Command

Deployment

Strategic Relocation

Key Airbases and Units

Units

Argentine Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Argentina)

Argentine Navy (Comando de Aviación Naval Argentina — COAN)

Argentine Army (Comando de Aviación del Ejército Argentino)

Argentine Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval Argentina)

Argentine Auxiliary Aircraft (Escuadrón Fénix & Airlines)

Armament

Guns and Cannons

Unguided Rockets

Missiles

Unguided Gravity Bombs

Air Campaign

Attack Missions

Other Missions

Success

Losses

Human Casualties

Aircraft Lost in Air Combat

Aircraft Lost by Other Causes

Total Aircraft Losses

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice