Argentine Navy retires Súper Étendard fighter-bombers

The Argentine Navy has officially announced the permanent retirement of its Súper Étendard fighter-bombers. The decision, announced by Naval Aviation Commander Rear Admiral Román Enrique Olivero at the Punta Indio Naval Base, is part of the Plan Dédalo modernization program.

The French-made aircraft gained historical significance during the Falklands War, where they were used to sink the HMS Sheffield and the Atlantic Conveyor using Exocet missiles. Despite their legacy, the fleet faced severe operational challenges due to a lack of spare parts and the discontinuation of components by the manufacturer. This included the Super Étendard Modernisé (SEM) units acquired in 2018, which never became operational due to a British embargo on critical components like Martin Baker Mk 4A ejection seats.

The modernization plan aims to replace obsolete systems with new technology, including P-3C Orion aircraft, Leonardo AW-109 helicopters, and Shield V-BAT unmanned aerial vehicles. The Navy also anticipates the progressive retirement of other historical systems, such as Fennec and Sea King SH-3 helicopters.