Royal Navy warship opens fire near Falkland Islands as Argentina warnings ignored
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British personnel continue to operate in the South Atlantic despite protestations from Buenos Aires
A Royal Navy warship has opened fire near the Falkland islands amid a string of training exercises.
HMS Medway is continuing to operate in the South Atlantic after her actions recently drew protestations from Argentina. The British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI) social media account said Operation Southern Vigilance was conducted between July 26 and 29.
Drills including weapons tests were carried out at the edge of the Falkland Islands Conservation Zone (FICZ). The force said the protected areas is continually safeguarded.
“The operation demonstrated the UK's enduring commitment to the Falkland Islands by maintaining a visible presence and capable force, helping to deter potential adversaries,” BFSAI said.
“Throughout the deployment, HMS Medway's Ship's Company conducted several training serials to maintain operational readiness, including live firing of Mounted Machine Guns and a man overboard exercise in coordination with an RAF A400M Atlas aircraft.”
In early July, BFSAI personnel took part in a string of training exercises which simulated various incidents, including public disorder at Main Entry Point, casualty drills, and unlawful attempts to enter camp. “The exercise rigorously tested our response procedures and communications network, with teams delivering an exceptional and rapid response throughout,” the force added.
“A great demonstration of professionalism, teamwork, and operational readiness. Training today, prepared for tomorrow.”
Activities near the Falklands Islands and debates about their sovereignty flared up after England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final. Players unveiled a derogatory “Las Malvinas” flag which described the archipelago as Argentinian.
Buenos Aires foreign minister Pablo Quirno launched a scathing attack on social media which described recent actions by HMS Medway as a “military incursion”. The River-class offshore patrol vessel had recently sailed from the Falklands to the port of Punta Arenas in Chile, traversing across the coast of Argentina near Santa Cruz and Tierra del Fuego.
The Chilean Navy has described the visit as a logistical call falling within existing bilateral cooperation on Antarctic matters. A UK Foreign Office delegation also visited the ship. Downing Street said the UK notified Argentina’s government of HMS Medway’s movements following the accusations of journeying through waters without permission.
A No 10 spokeswoman said: “The facts here are that we notified the Argentinian government in advance of HMS Medway undertaking a routine logistics visit to Chile between 5 and 8 July to support British Antarctic survey operations, which will deliver essential stores and supplies to sustain scientific research in Antarctica.
“The Royal Navy always operates in full compliance with international law, and the transit from the Falkland Islands to Chile was carried out via the most direct practical route, considering operational safety and weather factors to ensure timely delivery.”