Beagle Crisis: Naval Fennecs Doing Airbase Attack over Chabunco

Naval Aviation School in Operation Tronador

On the last week of August, 2024, news broke of a scramble (a priority emergency takeoff of an interceptor fighter to respond to an immediate threat) involving two FACh F-5E Tiger III aircraft to identify an "unknown threat" at the mouth of the Strait of Magellan. The jets found nothing, but they had taken off from Chabunco Air Base (Presidente Carlos Ibáñez International Airport) in Punta Arenas. In 1978, during the Beagle crisis, this airport would have been a target in an operation aimed at neutralizing the main Chilean aircraft operating in the area: the Hawker Hunters. This daring mission was assigned to a fleet of T-28 Fennec aircraft, rugged, radial-engine, two-seat trainers and light attack planes from the Argentine Navy's Aviation Command. Hidden at a dispersal airstrip 50 km from Río Grande, these aircraft were tasked with supporting the helicopter-borne landing on the disputed islands and sinking small vessels. Their most daring mission: attacking the Hunters as they were preparing to land. Let's delve into this fascinating story.

The Naval Aviation School Goes to War

At the end of 1977, the Naval Aviation School had a small number of only nine T-28 aircraft in service, out of a total of 20 assigned. During that period, the last navigation of these aircraft between Punta Indio and Ushuaia was planned, called "Operation Austral," which involved the transfer of the nine operational aircraft at that time.


T-28P 0628/3-A-208. B.A Ushuaia, August 11. Pilot Midshipman Goñi, and Second Warrant Officer Ruiz.


1.2km dispersal runway at Estancia La Sara where the T-28 Fennec operated

Initially conceived as the farewell of these aircraft, the mission unintentionally became the prelude to Operation Tronador for the School. Given the growing tension in the Austral Zone, the Naval Aviation Command (COAN) was instructed to increase the level of readiness due to the possible occurrence of an armed conflict. As part of these measures, the deactivation of the T-28s was suspended.


T-28F 0581/1-A-250 during a stopover at Tandil Air Base on the way to Rio Grande Air Station.

In early 1978, a four-plane division from the Naval Aviation School was deployed to the Río Grande Naval Air Base, where it remained for the entire year, with the planes being replaced periodically.

As tensions increased in November, the Naval Aviation School Squadron reached a total of 19 T-28s in operational condition, with the number of available pilots also increasing. Lieutenant Hugo Ortiz was put in charge of the group, which consisted of several officers.


B-80 used as support of the Fennec deployment

In the framework of Operation Tronador, the T-28 Squadron was assigned close air support missions, attacks on smaller vessels in Bahía Inútil, and the risky task of attacking Chilean Air Force Hunter aircraft during their landing phase in Punta Arenas. Shooting practice, rocket attacks, and 30º bombings were carried out, usually in cooperation with troops from the 5th Marine Infantry Battalion (BIM-5). A forward operating base was established on the runway of the "La Sara" ranch, where a division of T-28s was kept on permanent readiness, while the rest were concentrated in Río Grande.



Photo taken by Frigate Lieutenant Urberti to Midshipman Goñi on board T-28P 0588/3-A-203. The small painted feature on the camouflaged T-28s can be seen. Estancia La Sara, Dec. 1978.

During this period, reconnaissance flights were carried out, including over Chilean airspace. On one of these flights, on August 13, 1978, a section of T-28s discovered a field airfield with troops and a C-47 of the Chilean Air Force, just 15 miles northwest of the "La Sara" ranch.



Dispersal airstrips of the FACH and the COAN in the northern area of ​​Tierra del Fuego

Finally, shortly before December 22, the readiness was completed and the squadron awaited attack orders, which never came. The T-28 squadron was one of the last to withdraw, doing so on January 27, 1979, flying from La Sara to Punta Indio. Despite the precarious operating conditions and the wear and tear of the aircraft, no major inconveniences were recorded. In June 1979, the last T-28Fs were decommissioned and scrapped.


Wrecks of the T-28F of the ESAN (Naval Aviation School)

The region covered by history can be seen on this map below. From the improvised runway at Estancia La Sara, a direct route of 185 km was to be flown to carry out an attack on the Chabunco air base and a 100 km route to patrol and harass ships in Bahía Inútil. The runway is located about 50 km NNW of Río Grande, where another section of ESAN T-28 Fennecs operated. Finally, from the runway to Ushuaia there are only 155 km.

Conclusions

In the vast expanse of southern Argentina, amidst the frigid and desolate region of Tierra del Fuego, the brave pilots and instructors of the Naval Aviation School prepared for the unimaginable. Aboard their sturdy and rugged T-28 Fennecs—aircraft considered obsolete by many—these men not only faced the challenge of operating under the most extreme conditions, but did so with a boldness that continues to inspire admiration to this day.

As the tension of the Beagle crisis reached its peak, these pilots were entrusted with a mission that seemed straight out of an epic tale: to strike the formidable Chilean Hawker Hunters just as they were landing in Punta Arenas. Imagine the courage required to confront a more modern and better-armed enemy, knowing the odds were against them. Yet, from a camouflaged dispersal airstrip at Estancia La Sara, these men stood ready, the roar of their radial engines their only companion in the tense wait for orders that ultimately never came.

The spirit of these Argentine pilots, capable of defying the impossible with ingenuity and determination, is a legacy of courage and dedication that transcends time. Following in the same footsteps as Owen Crippa in the Malvinas four years later, these pilots were prepared to attack a well-defended target and the enemy's most valuable assets with training aircraft. It wasn’t just about the machines, but about the men who, in their T-28 Fennecs, showed the world that the true strength of a nation lies in the bravery of its defenders. Today, their example is a beacon of pride for all Argentines, a reminder that when the nation calls, its people respond with unwavering valor.

Sources: North American T-28 Fennec, Aeronaval Series No. 28.

UK Conflict Hypotheses on the Malvinas/Antarctica Scenario

UK Conflict Hypotheses on the Malvinas Scenario

The Malvinas/Antarctica scenario is a complex geopolitical theater that involves historical claims, strategic military interests, and potential resource exploitation. The primary conflict hypotheses in this region revolve around the sovereignty disputes over the Malvinas Islands and the broader Antarctic territorial claims, both of which have long been sources of tension between the United Kingdom and Argentina.

The United Kingdom has maintained a robust military presence in the Malvinas to deter potential threats and ensure the defense of the islands. The Royal Air Force (RAF) operates from Mount Pleasant Complex, which is equipped with 4 Eurofighter Typhoon jets for air superiority and aerial defense. These aircraft are supported by aerial refueling tankers and transport planes to ensure long-range operational capabilities. Additionally, the RAF provides radar coverage and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support to maintain situational awareness in the region.

The Royal Navy (RN) also plays a critical role in the defense of the Malvinas and the surrounding maritime areas. The presence of a patrol vessel, often a River-class offshore patrol vessel, ensures constant maritime surveillance and enforcement of sovereignty. The RN's Submarine Service provides an additional layer of deterrence and defense with periodic deployments of nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) to the South Atlantic. These submarines are capable of conducting covert surveillance and, if necessary, launching precision strikes.

The British Army (BA) maintains a permanent garrison on the Malvinas Islands, composed of an infantry company and supporting elements, including engineers and logistics units. This ground force is responsible for defending key infrastructure and responding to any potential land-based threats. They regularly conduct training exercises to remain prepared for a variety of scenarios, including amphibious assaults and counterinsurgency operations.

In light of a potential Argentine re-armament, the UK military's contingency plans are continually updated to account for new capabilities that Argentina may acquire. The purchase of FREMM frigates would significantly enhance the Argentine Navy's surface combat capabilities, posing a greater threat to British maritime operations. These frigates, equipped with advanced anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare systems, would require the RN to increase its own anti-submarine warfare (ASW) efforts and potentially deploy additional surface assets to counterbalance this threat.



The acquisition of F-16 Falcon fighter jets by Argentina would mark a substantial upgrade in their air force capabilities, challenging the air superiority currently held by the RAF's Eurofighter Typhoons. The UK would likely respond by enhancing its air defense posture, possibly deploying additional Typhoons or considering the integration of advanced air defense systems to ensure continued air dominance.

Argentina's investment in Stryker 8x8 armored vehicles would enhance their ground forces' mobility and combat effectiveness, necessitating a review of the BA's ground defense strategies. The UK may need to bolster its garrison with additional armored units or increase the frequency and scale of joint exercises to ensure readiness against a more capable adversary.

The potential acquisition of a San Giorgio-class landing platform dock (LPD) by Argentina would enhance their amphibious assault capabilities, raising concerns about a possible large-scale landing operation. The RN and BA would need to ensure robust coastal defense measures and maintain rapid response capabilities to counter any amphibious threats.

Lastly, the procurement of new diesel-electric submarines (SSKs) by Argentina would challenge the RN's underwater dominance in the region. These submarines would necessitate increased ASW efforts, possibly including the deployment of additional frigates and maritime patrol aircraft equipped with advanced ASW sensors and weaponry.

The UK prepares for contingencies in the Malvinas/Antarctica scenario through a combination of air, maritime, and ground forces, all coordinated to ensure a comprehensive defense posture. The potential re-armament of Argentina with advanced platforms such as FREMM frigates, F-16 Falcons, Stryker 8x8s, San Giorgio-class LPDs, and new SSKs would significantly alter the strategic balance, prompting the UK to adapt its plans and enhance its military capabilities to maintain a credible deterrence and defense posture in the South Atlantic.

 

The United Kingdom assesses several conflict hypotheses regarding the Malvinas Islands scenario to prepare for potential threats and ensure the defense of the islands. These hypotheses take into account historical tensions, geopolitical interests, and military capabilities. Here are some of the primary conflict hypotheses considered by the UK:

1. Renewed Argentine Claims and Military Action

• Scenario: Argentina renews its sovereignty claims over the Malvinas Islands and decides to take military action to assert control.
• Considerations: Historical context of the 1982 Malvinas War, current Argentine military capabilities, political climate in Argentina, and international diplomatic support for either side.

2. Increased Regional Tensions

• Scenario: Rising tensions in the South Atlantic region involving other South American countries could indirectly affect the Malvinas Islands.
• Considerations: Alliances and regional politics, the role of regional organizations such as Mercosur, and potential support or opposition from neighboring countries.

3. Economic or Resource-Driven Conflict

• Scenario: Competition over natural resources, such as fishing rights or potential oil reserves around the Malvinas Islands, leads to conflict.
• Considerations: Economic interests of both the UK and Argentina, international maritime law, and the involvement of multinational corporations.

4. Cyber and Hybrid Warfare

• Scenario: Non-traditional forms of conflict, such as cyber attacks, disinformation campaigns, or economic pressure, are used to destabilize the UK's control over the Malvinas Islands.
• Considerations: The capability of both state and non-state actors to conduct cyber operations, the resilience of critical infrastructure in the Malvinas, and public perception management.

5. International Diplomatic Pressure

• Scenario: Argentina, with support from other countries, exerts diplomatic pressure on international forums to challenge the UK's sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands.
• Considerations: The role of the United Nations, the influence of major powers like the US and China, and the potential for international sanctions or resolutions.

6. Internal UK Political and Economic Factors

• Scenario: Domestic political or economic challenges within the UK impact its ability to project power and maintain a strong defense of the Malvinas Islands.
• Considerations: Defense budget constraints, political will, public opinion, and the impact of other international commitments.

7. Unforeseen Strategic Developments

• Scenario: Unexpected changes in the global strategic environment, such as new alliances or conflicts elsewhere, shift the focus and resources of the UK.
• Considerations: Global geopolitical trends, emerging threats, and the strategic priorities of the UK.

Mitigation and Preparedness

• Military Presence: Maintaining a robust military presence on the islands, including a garrison, air defense systems, and naval assets.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Engaging in continuous diplomatic efforts to garner international support for the UK's sovereignty over the Malvinas.
• Intelligence and Surveillance: Enhancing intelligence and surveillance capabilities to detect and deter potential threats early.
• Infrastructure Development: Investing in critical infrastructure to support both civilian and military needs on the islands.
• Alliances and Partnerships: Strengthening alliances, particularly with NATO partners, to ensure a collective security response if necessary.

These conflict hypotheses and their corresponding considerations reflect the UK's comprehensive approach to safeguarding the occupied Malvinas Islands against a range of potential threats.

Esteban McLaren recopilation

Calquin: Flour Bombed at Morón!

A day of glory for the "Royal Eagles"

Ezequiel Martinez illustrates an exercise when the Calquin evaded radar by flying at the height of the treetops and attacked the cradle of the "white glove gods", the Gloster pilots, at the Morón BAM. The bombs were simulated with bags of flour and the surprise was total without the Glosters being able to intercept them.

Malvinas: RAF Planned to Attack Argentine Air Bases

According to a newspaper, the Royal Air Force had planes to bomb Argentina in 1982

By Guilherme Poggio 
Vulcan bombers would be used to attack Argentine Air Force bases from Ascension Island


The British newspaper The Telegraph reported in early March that the crews of the Vulcan bombers of the RAF (British Royal Air Force) were trained to bomb Argentine territory, specifically Air Force bases and airfields.

Information about training for the attack has now come to light, for the first time. The crews of the Vulcan bombers, which were developed for nuclear attacks on the Soviet Union, spent days and nights training in Scotland and Canada for a low-altitude attack several miles inside Argentine territory, and in a new edition of the acclaimed "Vulcan 607," military historian Rowland White tells this story.



Brigadier Simón Baldwin, the commander of the last unit to operate Vulcan bombers in 1982, formulated the plans. According to the white paper, he was unwavering in his belief that launching attacks on Argentine territory had become the primary mission for his squadron. No formal documentation was to be created. The directive to Air Commander Baldwin was simple: "Just do it." This directive was sanctioned by a senior officer from the General Staff in Group No. 1 of the Royal Air Force of Great Britain.

Baldwin assembled his most skilled crews, including the pilots who had executed the successful "Black Buck" operations against the Puerto Argentino airstrip in the Malvinas Islands. The strategy entailed penetrating deep into enemy airspace and releasing a barrage of bombs onto the runways of two major Argentine Air Force bases. During the summer of 1982 in the northern hemisphere, the squadron of eight bombers commenced their training missions, conducting simulated bomb runs on Royal Air Force bases and the Leuchars Valley in Scotland.

The attack involved two teams of two Vulcan bombers each departing from Ascension Island, a British territory located 1000 kilometers closer to the Malvinas Islands, which are Argentine territory. In-flight refueling would be carried out en route, and the attackers would descend to an altitude of 300 feet for the final segment of their journey.



The bombers planned to utilize their ground-mapping radars and their expertise in flying at low altitudes to conduct a night-time mission over Argentina. For the first time, the aircraft would be armed with Sidewinder air-to-air missiles as a precaution against potential encounters with Argentine fighter planes, even though such encounters were infrequent at night.

The leading bombers would employ a DASH-10 radar jamming pod, along with four AGM-45 Shrike anti-radar missiles, to target the Argentine surface-to-air missile systems.

Meanwhile, the second wave of attackers would focus on disrupting the road network, hampering the Argentine forces' capacity to launch their own attacks.

Each of the 21 bombs in the payload would weigh 1,000 pounds, equivalent to the payload of five Tornado aircraft, which had recently been deployed in Libya.

The aircraft would fly along the runway, releasing delayed-explosion bombs equipped with small parachutes. If the mission succeeded, the runway would be left with craters, and enemy fighters would be surrounded by fires.

In preparation for the operation, the squadron relocated to Goose Bay, Canada, to practice long-distance night flying.

Ultimately, Argentina transitioned to a democratic government, eliminating the threat to the Malvinas Islands.



Source: The Telegraph (translation, adaptation and edition: Air Power) 

PHOTOS: Royal Air Force



EDITOR'S NOTE: The text of the original story, which was brief, was expanded based on the British newspaper's original report earlier this Saturday afternoon in order to clarify some issues raised by readers. The new revised and expanded edition of the book "Vulcan 607" Rowland White, who brings the newspaper said that the details of this mission destined for training bases in Argentina, are expected to be sold in early April.

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