HKIOD.
CONFIDENTIAL
1ST DRAFT
the operation from April to November 1974, and disposed of some
8000 items of explosive ordnance. The operation was carried out in
conjunction with Egyptian, United States and French forces.
Facilities were made available at RAF Akrotiri and at Dhekelia for
US forces during their deployment to the Canal Zone for the mine
clearance operation. The Royal Air Force also provided a regular
airlift of spares and fresh food for the RN Task Force engaged in
the operations.
Óman
63.
The Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces, which include loan personnel
from the three Services, continued with the operations in Dhofar,
the south-west province of Oman. British Army and Royal Air Force
personnel assist in running Salalah airfield and defending it
against rebel attacks. A party of Royal Engineers has been assisting
in military engineering and civil development projects in Dhofar
and, for eight months, whilst the Sultan's Air Force were awaiting
delivery of new helicopters, 4 RAF Wessex helicopters with air and
ground crews were loaned to the Sultan to assist in the logistic
re-supply of units in the field.
Far East
64.
The Hong Kong garrison, supported by RAF helicopters, was
available to assist the civil authorities in assuring the security
of the Colony. A detachment of the Royal Air Force Regiment was
maintained at Kai Tak. HM Ships have carried out guardship and
patrol duties in the Colony throughout the year. Royal Air Force
operational aircraft have frequently been deployed to the Colony
during the year.
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CONFIDENTIAL