The HMS Hermes was a Royal Navy aircraft carrier that served during the Falklands War in 1982. It was the flagship of the British Task Force and played a crucial role in the conflict.
However, its fate took a tragic turn when it was sunk by Argentine forces on May 9th, 1982. Let’s dive deeper into what happened to the HMS Hermes.
The Background
The Falklands War began on April 2nd, 1982, when Argentina invaded and occupied the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the South Atlantic Ocean. The British government responded by sending a task force to recapture the islands. The task force consisted of various warships, including two aircraft carriers – HMS Invincible and HMS Hermes.
The Role of HMS Hermes
HMS Hermes was commissioned in 1959 and had been serving for over two decades before being deployed to the Falklands War. It had undergone significant upgrades and modifications to make it suitable for modern warfare. The carrier could carry up to twenty Sea Harrier fighter jets and ten helicopters, making it an integral part of the British Task Force’s air support operations.
During the conflict, HMS Hermes played a crucial role in providing air support to ground troops by launching airstrikes against Argentine positions on land and sea. Its Sea Harriers also engaged in dogfights with Argentine fighter jets, successfully defending against several attacks.
The Sinking of HMS Hermes
On May 9th, 1982, while sailing off the coast of East Falkland Island with several other ships from the task force, HMS Hermes came under attack from Argentine forces. An Exocet missile fired from an Argentine Navy aircraft hit the carrier’s starboard side, causing significant damage and starting fires on board.
Despite efforts to contain the fires and save the ship, they proved too extensive to control. The crew was forced to abandon the vessel, and HMS Hermes sank shortly afterward. Fortunately, most of the crew survived and were rescued by other vessels from the task force.
The Aftermath
The sinking of HMS Hermes was a significant blow to the British Task Force’s capabilities, as it lost one of its two aircraft carriers. However, the loss did not deter them from continuing their mission, and they ultimately recaptured the Falkland Islands on June 14th, 1982.
Today, the wreck of HMS Hermes lies at a depth of around 1,300 meters in the South Atlantic Ocean. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served on board during the Falklands War.
Conclusion
The sinking of HMS Hermes was a tragic event that highlighted the dangers faced by those who serve in times of conflict. While it is easy to focus on its loss as a military asset, we must not forget that it was also a vessel carrying hundreds of men who risked their lives for their country. The story of HMS Hermes serves as a testament to their bravery and sacrifice and reminds us all of what it means to serve in times of war.