Rowland White

The Falkland war is a fascinating story. The book, however, only tells it in fragments, as it intersects with 809 squadron, which is kind of a shame. And even the specific details of 809's sorties are sometimes hard to follow. It feels like the book isn't quite sure whether it wants to tell the story of the Falkland campaign, or the story of the air war over the Falklands, or just follow the men of 809. It feels like it lacks focus.

Still, the story itself is interesting, even in its current form.… (mer)

An excellent story of 809 Naval Air Squadron and their role in the Falklands War in 1982. Gives insights to the intelligence war and the assistance given to the UK by USA / Chile and France.
If you are interested in this subject, this is one book you should definitely read. Well written with thrilling descriptions of the air combat encounters and tactics. A real page-turner.
You do not need a strong military knowledge to enjoy this book, There is an appendix with jargon / military terms to help you enjoy.… (mer)

This book tells the story of the Falklands War from the perspective of the Harrier jump jet squadrons sent with the Task Force and, in particular, Squadron 809.

At the start of the War two Sea Harrier squadrons, 800 and 801, were sent with the Task Force, primarily to provide air cover for the air craft carriers Hermes and Invincible. It was recognised that these twenty aircraft would not be enough, so a third squadron, 809, was quickly assembled, pilots assigned and trained, and despatched to the South Atlantic. The bulk of the book describes how this was achieved.

Once in theatre we are given quite detailed descriptions of the strategies, tactics and missions of all three squadrons, plus the context of the wider picture of the war. We also see the air campaign from the perspective of the Argentine Air Force.

The battle descriptions are dynamic, immediate and thrilling. In fact, the whole book reads more like a thriller than history and is definitely a page-turner.

A bit too much jargon for my liking, but I am sure that is how the military history fan-boys like it.

Very readable, relevant to a general audience and highly recommended.… (mer)