picture 176700

The Colossus-class aircraft carrier ARA Independencia (V-1) was the first aircraft carrier of the Argentine Navy. Although designed and constructed during the Second World War, this ship was built to commercial standards, and at 19,000 tons displacement, relatively small. Moreover, the entire class suffered from machinery-related problems. Originally constructed as HMS Warrior, and after serving with the Royal Canadian Navy as HMCS Warrior, it was purchased by Buenos Aires in 1958 and remained in active service until 1969. ARA Independencia could carry up to 30 aircraft, including F4U-5s, AT-6/SNJ-5s, Grumman S-2A Trackers, and Bell 47G helicopters. (Artwork by Ivan Zajac)