The Argentine Air Force in the Malvinas from 1971 to 1982
In 1971, the “Communications Agreement” was signed with the United Kingdom. Under this framework, the Argentine Air Force assumed responsibility for establishing a weekly airline service. Personnel from the Air Force were deployed to the islands, representing Líneas Aéreas del Estado (LADE).
The appointed officer became the usual point of contact between Argentine authorities and the local island communities, as well as with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship.
Daily family coexistence, respectful personal relationships, and a diligent attitude in service provision were all meant to demonstrate to the Malvinas residents Argentina’s intention to look after their well-being and to consider their interests — if not always their feelings — as aligned with those of the Argentine nation.
This was not just air service; it was a diplomatic effort to reinforce Argentine presence and care on the islands — a soft, persistent reminder that Argentina was present and committed to the Malvinas, long before the escalation of 1982.
The Situation in the Early 1980s
By the early 1980s, it seemed that the British government was seriously beginning to seek a solution to the sovereignty dispute with Argentina. Talks were underway over a possible leaseback or long-term lease of the islands. While this proposal did not fully satisfy Argentina’s aspirations, it marked a significant breakthrough and a radical shift in the British government’s negotiating stance, appearing to move away from its old stalling tactics.
On the other hand, Argentina’s efforts to improve the well-being of the Malvinas population were at their peak. Nearly a decade had passed since LADE’s first flight, and the islanders were openly enjoying the services provided by Argentina. The most important included:
✅ Two weekly LADE flights using Fokker F-27 and F-28 aircraft, which enabled the arrival of tourists, benefiting local commerce and hospitality.
✅ Postal and cargo services on all flights, ensuring the regular delivery of mail, newspapers, magazines, videos, films for projection at the local cinema, and supplies like vegetables and medicines.
✅ Regular provision by YPF of gasoline and kerosene. Diesel, fuel oil, and lubricants were marketed by FIC.
✅ Supply of liquefied gas in cylinders and canisters by Gas del Estado, which even had to expand its storage plant to meet growing demand.
✅ Maritime transport by the Argentine Navy’s Transportes Navales, on a four-month rotation, ensuring the delivery of gas, fuel, and other goods purchased in Argentina: flour, corn, animal feed, etc.
✅ Spanish-language instruction in the schools of Puerto Argentino (Port Stanley), provided by Argentine bilingual teachers.
✅ Scholarships for young Malvinas islanders who wished to complete their secondary studies at Argentina’s top British-style schools.
✅ A notable increase in Argentine and international tourism. 
Simultaneously, with the change of Argentina’s representative in 1980, the British governor, the government secretary, and the Anglican cathedral pastor were also renewed. Except for the manager of the Falkland Island Company, the most influential figures were new — creating a favorable climate for management without prejudice or entrenched wear.
The first gesture of goodwill from the new authorities was to grant the Argentine representative distinguished, preferential, and open treatment, evident in every social or work meeting they held.
Problems regarding the application or interpretation of the 1971 Communications Agreement were analyzed without speculation and with broad-mindedness. Solutions were found without delay, and new ideas were launched to expand and deepen cooperation.
It can confidently be said that, in the months leading up to the war, the attitude and disposition of Governor Rex Hunt and his government secretary, Dick Baker, were clearly favorable to strengthening relations with Argentina. Argentine Air Force
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