How Many Ground Forces Did Britain Send to Retake the Falkland Islands from Argentina?

Introduction

The Falkland Islands conflict, also known as the Falklands War, took place in 1982 between the United Kingdom and Argentina. Britain responded with a significant military deployment, which included substantial ground forces. This article provides a detailed analysis of the number and composition of the British ground forces involved in Operation Corporate.

Overview of Operation Corporate

Operation Corporate was the codename for the military operation launched by the United Kingdom to recapture the Falkland Islands. The operation was launched in response to Argentina's invasion and occupation of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.

Ground Force Deployment

Out of the total estimated 28,000 personnel involved in Operation Corporate, approximately 10,000 were ground forces, including infantry, armour, artillery, signals, and supporting units. This massive contingent includes five key components:

3 Commando Brigade

Consisted of three battalions or Commandoes in Marine terminology Supported by 2 and 3 Para of the Parachute Regiment

5 Infantry Brigade

Comprising a battalion from the Welsh Guards, Scots Guards, and Gurkhas Later received a Para Battalion transferred from 3 Commando Brigade

Royal Signals and Other Supporting Units

The Royal Signals ensured uninterrupted communication networks The Royal Corps of Transport ensured the movement of troops and supplies The Royal Army Medical Corps provided medical support and care The Royal Pioneer Corps carried out support functions like construction and maintenance The intelligence Corps provided vital intelligence for strategic decisions The Army Catering Corps managed the supply and distribution of food The Blues and Royals provided armoured support and logistical assistance The Royal Artillery provided firepower with various guns and howitzers The Royal Engineers were responsible for engineering operations such as bridge building and field fortifications The 22 SAS (Special Air Service) provided reconnaissance and counter-reconnaissance capabilities The Army Air Corps supported ground operations with helicopters and aircraft The Royal Army Ordnance Corps managed ordnance supplies and maintenance The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers provided maintenance support for vehicles and equipment The Royal Military Police managed law and order The Royal Army Pay Corps handled financial transactions The Royal Army Educational Corps provided education and training The Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps provided medical care The Women’s Royal Army Corps provided various roles in support functions

Conclusion

The British deployment of approximately 10,000 ground forces in Operation Corporate was a crucial and well-coordinated effort that played a significant role in the successful recapture of the Falkland Islands. The diverse composition of these forces, including infantry, armour, artillery, and support units, underscored Britain's determination and readiness to confront the Argentine threat.