Quote:
Originally Posted by HorseSoldier
I think a reinforcing of the Falklands would tend to be a logical step in the general run up to the war in Europe -- with everything getting tense, sending additional troops there makes sense. Probably would have been a regular unit, later replaced by TA when they're mobilized.
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In principle I agree that reinforcing the Falklands garrison seems logical. The problem is that I'm not sure where the additional troops might have come from, especially if the signs are pointing towards a War in Europe. I just can't see any valid strategic reasons for the Falklands to be that high up the list of priorities. As I've said before, if the UK Government wanted to send a "subtle" message to the Argentines, I think it would be to let them know that an RN hunter killer sub is in the area and any hostile ships approaching the islands will be sent to the bottom of the South Atlantic.
The best I can see Army wise might be some sort of ad hoc Battalion Group...maybe a Company from one of the London based Guards Bns, a couple of TA Companies (possibly from one of the "larger" Bns - I think one of the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters TA Bns slated for home defence had five rifle Companies), maybe pull the Gurkha Company from Sandhurst (I've read that in the weeks leading up to the liberation in 1982 many Argentine conscripts were terrified at the prospect that the Gurkhas were coming...)
Others' thoughts may vary...especially if you advocate any sort of increase to the Army's RL size in the years leading up to the War.