The Untold Story of a Fighting Ship: One Ship, Two Flags, a Thousand Battles

The book "ARA Bouchard: The Forgotten Hero of the Falklands War" highlights the significant role played by the destroyer ARA Bouchard in the conflict, despite its outdated technology and limited maintenance. Despite being hit by a torpedo and suffering damage, it played a crucial role in patrolling the north of the archipelago, attacking the British fleet, and preventing British commandos from infiltrating the Río Grande airport. It also engaged in combat operations and fired its main gun battery on enemy targets.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 193 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the remarkable tale of the destroyer ARA Bouchard's pivotal role in the Falklands/Malvinas War. Spanning over four decades since its construction, equipped with obsolete technology, limited maintenance, and numerous out-of-service machinery, the ship remained steadfast throughout the entire campaign, playing a significant role that, for various reasons, has remained largely hidden until today.

During the Falklands/Malvinas conflict, the destroyer patrolled the northern archipelago, enabling the recapture of the islands. It was a notable participant alongside the Cruiser and another destroyer in the attack on the British fleet, although it was unable to locate them. Upon its return, the destroyer encountered the third torpedo launched by the submarine Conqueror, aimed at the cruiser ARA General Belgrano. The destroyer sustained damage and was forced to dock for hull repairs. Despite the impairment, it managed to sail but required a dry dock to replace a portion of its hull.

In a valiant defense, the destroyer thwarted British commandos from infiltrating the Río Grande airport, where they aimed to destroy the Navies Super Etendard attack aircraft and assassinate its pilots. For two consecutive nights, the destroyer stood strong, deterring the invaders from their mission. With its formidable main gun battery, it unleashed combat ammunition upon enemy targets, showcasing its prowess and being the sole main battery to have this opportunity. Despite being irradiated and repurposed for missile target practice, the destroyer remained resilient, evading attempts to sink it during the firing exercises.

Eventually, the destroyer was decommissioned and scrapped, marking the end of its remarkable service. Its story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of naval vessels, even in the face of outdated technology and challenging circumstances. The ARA Bouchard's contributions to the Falklands/Malvinas War remain a hidden chapter in history, waiting to be uncovered and celebrated.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030926267
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022