TWO Chinooks from RAF Odiham will be sent to bolster the defence of the Falkland Islands, it has been announced.

The twin-rotored helicopters will be sent to the south Atlantic amid renewed fears of a fresh Argentine invasion of the islands.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said the helicopters would enable the islands’ garrison to mount a “swift and decisive response” to any “emerging incidents”.

All but three Chinooks returned from Afghanistan recently, with the remaining crews due home soon.

The three crews are currently based in capital Kabul, flying up to ten hours a day, transporting diplomats, UK and coalition troops and freight.

In a Commons statement today, Mr Fallon said a review of the Falkland Islands’ defences had found they were “broadly proportionate” to the current threat level.

However he said the Government would be installing an enhanced communications system at the military headquarters at Mount Pleasant as well as putting in place plans to replace the Rapier air defence missiles when they go out of service at the end of the decade.

He also confirmed the Government's commitment to maintaining a Falkland Islands patrol vessel - currently HMS Clyde - while investing £180 million over the next 10 years upgrading the infrastructure including harbour facilities and fuel infrastructure.

“The review we have undertaken confirms our commitment to the Falkland Islands. We will continue to defend the right of the islanders and to maintain their way of life against whatever threats may arise,” he said.