The British capture of Wireless Ridge on 14 June 1982 broke the final Argentine defensive line before Port Stanley, precipitating the total Argentine surrender that ended the Falklands War.
Key Facts
- Date of battle
- Night of 13–14 June 1982
- British unit
- 2nd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (2 Para)
- Argentine unit
- 7th Infantry Regiment and detachments
- British light tanks deployed
- 2 FV101 Scorpion and 2 FV107 Scimitar
- HMS Glasgow shells fired
- 222 shells at Moody Brook area on 10 May
- Argentine soldiers killed (Harrier strike)
- 3 (11 June, at Moody Brook Barracks)
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
During the British advance on Port Stanley in June 1982, Argentine forces occupied a chain of strategic hills within five miles of the capital. Wireless Ridge was held by Argentina's 7th Infantry Regiment and supporting units, making it a necessary objective before any assault on Port Stanley could proceed.
On the night of 13–14 June 1982, British forces comprising 2 Para, a troop of the Blues & Royals with four light tanks, and artillery and naval gunfire support from HMS Ambuscade attacked Wireless Ridge. The assault overcame Argentine defenders from the 7th Infantry Regiment and associated detachments, and British forces successfully seized the ridge.
The fall of Wireless Ridge removed the last significant Argentine defensive position before Port Stanley. Later on 14 June 1982, the entire Argentine force on the Falkland Islands surrendered, ending the conflict and restoring British control over the islands.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent
Major José Rodolfo Banetta (10th Brigade HQ Company).