Harrier 809 is a book by Rowland White, about the Sea Harrier and its use during the Falklands war. Before reading this book, I previously knew nothing about the Falklands. I actually had to look at a map for my reference, and it was hard to spot. The Falklands are situated at the bottom of South America, it is a speck of islands adjacent to South America’s tip. A long neglected British territory, in 1982 Argentina invaded the islands. Not one to be bullied or intimidated by other countries, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher ordered a full-scale British response. A fleet of war ships were prepared. As well as a small number of Britain’s Harrier jump Jets. The Harrier is a sub-sonic fighter aircraft, famed for the ability of taking off like a helicopter. The Jet was conceived at a time when, the west was convinced that a full-scale war with Russia was inevitable. The Harrier was instead, used in this conflict. It is here where the book really begins, with Squadron 809 called into action.
Before I found had an interest in Aviation, I was interested in ships. This began at a young age, looking at books on the Titanic, and of course the 1997 Titanic film. Before trans-Atlantic passenger travel could begin, in 1837. An agreement was reached between the British Navy, and the civilian shipping companies. This agreement outlined some conditions, on the passenger ship entities. Civilian ship companies could use the Atlantic shipping routes, provided that their ships, could be used by the navy, in times of war. Similarly, at the outbreak of the Falklands war, Ships were also converted for use in this conflict.
The Harrier jump jet, and those who crewed them, seemed to be coming up against a superior enemy. The jet, nevertheless, proved extremely capable. Backed up by, and flying from, various aircraft carriers. These aircraft carriers had made the long journey from England to the Falkland Islands. Some had not been involved in conflicts, for a long time. While another, specifically Atlantic Conveyer, was a converted container ship.
To me, there was a dizzying amount of information about air bases, ranks within the navy, and technical detail. While it was interesting, I did find it a bit tedious. I found myself flicking ahead, looking for the next part of the book. Hoping to find a part filled with action. While the book does well, in the explanations, not having prior understanding did not help. I have relied on various documentaries and magazines, to complement my understanding of the Falklands war.
The Falklands war began, when Argentina invaded the Falklands in 1982. A British response was sent thousands of kilometres to the tip of South America. The British used the Harrier Jump Jet and took off from various aircraft carriers stationed in the area. 809 squadron flew the Harrier in this conflict. The harrier was outnumbered and seemingly outmatched. However, it proved very successful in the British mission to defend their territory in the Falkland Islands.
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