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DRAFT
DEFENCE
CKGROUND
The Garrison
The garrison assists the Hong Kong Government and the police
to control the frontier and to maintain security throughout the
Colony.
The teeth arm force level has remained at 6 major units
since 1968 :
UK Infantry Battalions
Gurkha Infantry Battalions
UK Light Artillery Regiment
UK Armoured Reconnaissance
Squadron
Gurkha Independent Field
Squadron
2
2
3
1
The total strength, including supporting units and locally
entered personnel, was 10,898 as at 31 October 1973. Of this figure,
4,097 are UK personnel and 5,645 are Gurkhas.
Prior to 1970, an infantry battalion in Singapore had been
earmarked in contingency plans as an immediate reserve for Hong
Kong. In view of the more stable situation in the Colony and the
improved capability of the police, it was decided in 1970 that the
need could be met by earmarking a battalion in the UK able to
deploy to Hong Kong within 7 days.
In addition to bir
garrison, the RN maintain a frigate
and 5 minesweepers at Hong Kong; RAF force levels are 8 Wessex
helicopters and a Flight and Section of the RAF Regiment.
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