The Falklands War

The Falklands War started on 2 April 1982 when Argentina invaded the islands. It was not until 21 May that British forces arrived and were able to land around San Carlos Water to begin the recapture of the islands (Operation Sutton). Four Scorpions and four Scimitars from The Blues and Royals took part (divided into two troops, Troops 3 and 4, with two Scorpions and two Scimitars each) plus a single Samson recovery vehicle. At first, they found themselves ferrying general stores forward before taking on a more offensive role with 2 Para at Bluff Cove. On the night of 11/12 June, the Scorpions took part in the offensive on Mount Longdon. 3 Troop supported 2 Para when they attacked Wireless Ridge on 13/14 June. 4 Troop gave fire support to the Scots Guards as they attacked Mount Tumbledown. Following the ceasefire, four CVR(T)s led 2 Para into Stanley carrying the Regimental flag. The Scorpions had fired an average of 60 rounds apiece and the Scimitars over 100 rounds each.

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Markings
Camouflage was standard black over green. Very few markings are visible in photos during the action. Don’t be confused by some photos which were taken on Ascension Island where the markings were still in place. Their call-signs were: Scimitars 23B, 23C, 24B, 24C; Scorpions 23, 23A, 23B, 24. By the time they reached the Falklands, all markings had been painted out with the possible exception of the convoy stripes at the rear.

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All photos from various internet pages. Please contact us as original sources are difficult to credit accurately.

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