Operation Corporate: Operational Artist's View of the Falkland Islands Conflict

Abstract

Abstract : This paper reviews the 1982 Falkland Islands conflict between Argentina and Great Britain from the operational artist's viewpoint. This paper focuses on the political considerations, strategic objectives and operational factors, including objectives, centers of gravity and forces employment. The objective is to provide the reader with lessons learned at the political, strategic and operational level and provide specific recommendations which impact at the operational level of war. This paper does not cover the long history of negotiations between the parties in dispute, U.S. involvement or the tactical aspects of the conflict. This paper does cover the political, strategic, and operational factors which are important for the operational planner. The Falklands conflict provides the U.S. planner with important lessons learned applicable for future employment of U.S. forces at the operational level of war. The Falklands conflict occurred due to both countries' failure at the political and strategic level of decision making to correctly analyze their opponents reactions to diplomatic and military actions.