RAF Veterans Give Fascinating Insight into Secret Falklands War Mission at Rotary Club Talk

Members and guests of the Rotary Club of King's Lynn Priory were treated to a remarkable insight into one of the most daring and secretive proposed operations of the Falklands War during a special speaker evening held this week.

Now retired Wing Commander David Musgrave, navigator, and Squadron Leader Nigel Watson, captain pilot of a Hercules aircraft, gave a compelling first-hand account of their involvement in the planning and preparation for Operation Mikado — a highly dangerous mission developed in collaboration with the SAS during the 1982 Falklands conflict.

The operation centred around a proposed covert landing of Hercules aircraft at Stanley airfield, with the aim of neutralising the threat posed by Argentinian Exocet missiles. During the talk, the officers described the intense planning involved, the rapid introduction of new technologies such as night vision goggles, and the rushed experimentation with tactical combat landings required to make such a mission possible.

Fortunately, shortly before the operation was due to proceed, fresh intelligence suggested that the Argentinian forces possessed far fewer Exocet missiles than originally feared, leading to the mission being abandoned.

Audience members heard how, had the operation gone ahead, the chances of the Hercules crews returning safely were considered extremely slim.

The evening also featured the presence of Paul Millikin, Squadron Leader Pilot of the Vulcan V Bomber and Victor K2 Tanker fleet, who played a role in the air-to-air refuelling operations that were critical to the long-range RAF missions during the Falklands campaign.

Rotary members described the talk as both thrilling and deeply moving, offering a rare opportunity to hear directly from officers involved in events that formed part of modern British military history.

Derek Stringer, Club President said:

“Listening to David and Nigel speak so openly about the planning, risks and realities behind Operation Mikado was absolutely fascinating. To hear these stories first-hand from the people involved brought history to life in a way books and documentaries simply cannot. We were privileged to host such distinguished guests and grateful to all three gentlemen for sharing their experiences.”

The Rotary Club of King's Lynn Priory regularly hosts a wide variety of guest speakers, social activities and community events throughout the year.