Page 42 - Le Operazioni Interforze e Multinazionali nella Storia Militare - ACTA Tomo II

682 XXXIX Congresso della CommIssIone InternazIonale dI storIa mIlItare • CIHm

was not really well suited for depicting stone runs, which are major geological features
peculiar to the Islands and which proved important tactical features and obstructions to
movement.

CORPORATE was very much a UK Defence operation. By its conclusion 410
different geo products had been made available over an area stretching from the
Antarctic across the South American mainland and back 3,300 miles to Ascension in
case the operation should expand. Military Survey had supplied material to a range
of customers from the Special Forces through to the BBC for reporting progress of
the war. Throughout the operation the deadline seemed to be “NOW”. In this paper
just a selection has been provided. The Falklands crisis highlighted areas in need of
improvement, for example the physical separation of activities could cause delays and
communication. It also reinforced the need for ready access to source material world-
wide. It also demonstrated that Military Survey was capable of producing what was
needed in an emergency. Enthusiasm, skill and diligence were matched by initiative,
ingenuity and loyalty among all those involved. Staff cheerfully gave up their Easter
leave, weekends and even night’s sleep to get the work done on time and the local fish
and chip shop did a roaring trade as runners were sent to bring in lunch and supper for
staff!