Posted on 01/13/2013 9:21:37 AM PST by rellimpank
A series of military options are being actively considered as the war of words over the islands intensifies. It is understood that additional troops, another warship and extra RAF Typhoon combat aircraft could be dispatched to the region ahead of the March referendum on the Falkland Islands’ future. The options being proposed by planners at the Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, north-west London are also said to include a “show of force” such as conducting naval exercises in the South Atlantic. These could involve the deployment of the Royal Navy’s Response Task Force Group, a flotilla comprising destroyers, a frigate, a submarine and commandos. Alternatives include deploying elements of the Army’s 16 Air Assault Brigade — the airborne task force which includes members of the Parachute Regiment — which has just completed a series of demanding exercises in Spain preparing for “general war”.
(Excerpt) Read more at telegraph.co.uk ...
Argentina is using this issue as a distraction from their internal failures.
Kirchner would be a fool to use any military option.
She would get the same result as General Galtieri did in 1982. Her government would fall.
But in these desperate economic times bluffing and blustering about possible military action helps both President Kirchner and Prime Minister Cameron, whose economies are in lousy shape.
Because it worked so well the last time.
I think a reasonably honest person reviewing the evidence will conclude that Argentina’s claim to the islands is pretty weak.
One would think Argentina would have better things to do.
They’re sitting on top of shale gas resources almost as large as those in the USA.
Who exactly has a vote in this referendum? Falklanders only? Brits at large? If the former (which I suspect), why - since it seems the Brits at large are footing the bill?
Same as the case of Scotland
Not much of a 'bill' these days - the Falklands economy is booming, and they're more than paying their way (defence excluded). Not that there would be much difference in the result if all UK citizens voted also.
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