£75.00
With its origins dating back prior to the outbreak of WWII, 820 Naval Air Squadron played a significant role during the Falklands War from 1982 and flew over 4700 hours during the conflict.
Piloting a Sea King helicopter from the squadron, Prince Andrew was first to lift off survivors after the Atlantic Conveyor was hit by an exorcet missile.
Robert Taylor’s fine painting depicts the Prince in the thick of the action and Robert even commented:
“I had to get this one right. His Royal Highness wanted to approve it before the prints were made!”
Each print is individually signed by the artist and Prince Andrew’s C.O.
The Atlantic Conveyor was a 14,950-ton container ship owned by Cunard. During the Falklands War, the Ministry of Defence requisitioned her through the “Ships Taken Up From Trade” (STUFT) system. Specifically, she served as a vital transport for the Royal Navy Task Force. This stunning limited edition print portrays the ship during its final, heroic moments in the South Atlantic. If you are a collector of naval and aviation history, you can explore our full Falklands War limited edition print collection in the gallery.
Robert Taylor’s fine painting captures a Sea King helicopter from 820 Naval Air Squadron in action. Piloting one of these aircraft, Prince Andrew was the first to lift survivors from the burning ship. Indeed, the Prince personally approved this portrayal before the artist made any prints. Furthermore, each copy carries the signature of the Prince’s Commanding Officer, Commander Ralph Wykes-Sneyd. This limited edition print serves as a powerful tribute to the bravery of the rescue crews who flew in horrific conditions.
On 25 May 1982, two Argentine Super Étendard fighters launched AM39 Exocet missiles at the ship. Both missiles struck the port quarter, causing massive internal damage. Consequently, an uncontrollable fire broke out due to the fuel and ammunition stored below decks. Moreover, the loss of the ship was a strategic blow. It resulted in the destruction of six Wessex helicopters and three vital Chinooks. Only one Chinook, the famous ‘Bravo November’, survived the disaster. You can learn more about the units involved by visiting the official RAF museum.
The loss of these heavy-lift helicopters changed the course of the land campaign. Because the transport fleet was gone, British troops had to march on foot across the rugged Falklands terrain to recapture Stanley. Twelve men tragically died in the attack, including the ship’s master, Captain Ian Harry North. Subsequently, Captain North received a posthumous Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership. This limited edition print honors his memory and the sacrifice of the merchant seamen who served alongside the Royal Navy.
Robert Taylor is world-renowned for his ability to capture the “thick of the action” with technical precision. Finally, this edition uses archival-quality materials to ensure the dramatic smoke and sea spray remain vivid for years. In fact, the historical significance of the signatures makes this a premier investment for military historians. Therefore, shop our gallery today to secure your own limited edition print of this pivotal moment in the 1982 conflict.
| Dimensions | 67.31 × 50.16 cm |
|---|---|
| Print Type | Signed and Numbered, Artists Proof |
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