The Falklands War of 1982 saw intense naval and air battles between the United Kingdom and Argentina. One of the most controversial claims to emerge from this conflict is whether HMS Invincible, the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier, was hit by an Exocet missile fired by the Argentine forces.
The British government and official military reports maintain that HMS Invincible was never hit. However, some Argentine sources and post-war speculations suggest otherwise. This topic will explore the evidence, conflicting reports, and theories surrounding the claim.
What Was HMS Invincible?
A Key Asset of the Royal Navy
HMS Invincible was the lead ship of the Invincible-class aircraft carriers, commissioned in 1980. As one of the Royal Navy’s most important assets, it played a critical role in the Falklands War, acting as a mobile airbase for Harrier jump jets and helicopters.
Role in the Falklands War
During the conflict, HMS Invincible was one of two aircraft carriers deployed by the British Task Force, alongside HMS Hermes. The carrier provided air superiority, reconnaissance, and support for ground operations. It was heavily defended by escort ships, radar systems, and anti-aircraft weapons.
The Argentine Attack on British Ships
Argentina’s Use of Exocet Missiles
The AM39 Exocet missile was one of Argentina’s most potent weapons against the British fleet. Launched from Super àtendard aircraft, these missiles were capable of skimming the sea at high speeds, making them difficult to intercept.
On May 4, 1982, an Exocet missile hit HMS Sheffield, causing severe damage and later sinking the destroyer. Another Exocet attack on June 12 struck the Atlantic Conveyor, a transport ship carrying crucial supplies.
The Alleged Attack on HMS Invincible
On May 30, 1982, Argentina launched a coordinated airstrike, claiming that an Exocet missile struck HMS Invincible. According to Argentine sources, two Super àtendard aircraft fired Exocet missiles at the carrier, followed by a wave of A-4 Skyhawk bombers attacking the target.
The British officially deny that HMS Invincible was hit, stating that the missiles were intercepted or missed the target. However, some Argentine veterans and analysts argue otherwise.
Conflicting Reports: Was HMS Invincible Hit?
The British Version
The Royal Navy and British government maintain that:
- The Exocet missiles did not hit HMS Invincible.
- British Sea Harriers and anti-aircraft defenses intercepted or deflected the attack.
- No damage or casualties occurred on the carrier.
The Argentine Claim
Some Argentine military reports suggest that:
- An Exocet missile successfully struck HMS Invincible.
- Skyhawk bombers followed up, hitting the carrier with bombs.
- British forces covered up the damage to maintain morale and prevent strategic disadvantages.
Analyzing the Evidence
Satellite and Photographic Evidence
One of the biggest arguments against the Argentine claim is that no credible photos or videos exist showing HMS Invincible damaged. The Royal Navy released images of the carrier returning to the UK without any visible damage.
However, Argentine skeptics argue that:
- The British could have used doctored photos or another ship to deceive the public.
- Damage could have been quickly repaired at sea.
Eyewitness Testimonies
British sailors and officers deny any attack on HMS Invincible, stating they were on board and never saw or felt an impact. On the other hand, Argentine pilots involved in the attack insist they saw their missiles hit the target.
Military and Strategic Implications
If HMS Invincible had been damaged or sunk, it would have been a major blow to British operations in the Falklands. However, the British forces continued their offensive unhindered, leading many analysts to believe that the carrier remained intact.
Possible Explanations
1. The Attack Missed or Was Repelled
One of the most widely accepted explanations is that:
- The Exocet missiles missed or were intercepted by defensive countermeasures.
- The Skyhawk bombers failed to hit their target due to British anti-aircraft fire.
2. A Different Ship Was Hit
Some theories suggest that:
- The Argentine pilots mistook another vessel for HMS Invincible.
- A British escort ship was hit instead, but the British covered it up to protect morale.
3. Damage Was Minimal and Repaired Quickly
Another theory is that:
- An Exocet may have hit HMS Invincible but caused only superficial damage.
- The British repaired it at sea, preventing any public knowledge of the event.
The Aftermath and Lasting Debate
The British Victory
Despite the controversy, the Falklands War ended on June 14, 1982, with a British victory. HMS Invincible remained in service for many years, participating in later conflicts before being decommissioned in 2005.
Argentine Perspectives
For many in Argentina, the question remains open. Some believe that British secrecy prevented the truth from being revealed. However, no concrete evidence has surfaced to prove HMS Invincible was truly hit.
Myth or Reality?
The claim that HMS Invincible was hit by an Exocet missile remains one of the most debated events of the Falklands War. While the British government firmly denies it, some Argentine sources maintain that the attack was successful.
Without photographic evidence, physical damage reports, or independent verification, the theory remains unproven. However, the ongoing speculation keeps the story alive, making it one of the war’s enduring mysteries.