CONFIDENTIAL,
3RD DRAFT
30.
Operation Centres are capable of operating independently
from other elements of UKADGE; and these facilities
together with a series of major improvements currently
being considered, will add to the ability of UKADGE to
withstand attack and improve its flexibility.
1. Skynet
The Skynet II Communications Satellite was success-
fully launched in November 1974 and is now operational.
BRITISH FORCES OPERATIONS AND EXERCISES
NORTHERN IRELAND
Throughout 1974, the Armed Services have continued to be
committed in Northern Ireland to help the civil power to uphold
law and order and to combat terrorism.
The Armed Services will
remain in Northern Ireland for as long and in such strength as the
maintenance of peace requires.
31. The beginning of 1974 saw the creation of a power-sharing
Fxecutive in Northern Ireland. The strike led by the Ulster Workers'
Council in May brought about its collapse. The Security Forces will
nevertheless continue to strive for conditions of peace and stability
in which the arrangements for a Constitutional Convention may go
ahead smoothly, with the objective of creating new institutions,
based on power-sharing, to replace the former Executive.
32. The Armed Services have pursued a steady campaign against
terrorism from whatever source. They have conducted it with the
utmost care to avoid unnecessary inconvenience to law-abiding
citizens. By their rigorous work throughout the year to frustrate
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