55.
SECRET/LOCSEN
CONCLUSIONS
!
B. The conclusions of NST 7015, that the five existing converted TON Class
forming the RN Hong Kong Squadron should be replaced by new construction Patrol Craft, was accepted by the NPC in December 1977.
b.
These
Three Material Studies were carried out in response to the NST.
have identified the craft, communication and weapon fit options for the vessels. C. Subsequent discussions, including those with CAPIC Hong Kong and the Secretary for Security, Hong Kong Government, have resulted in proposals for a design and build tender competition for the vessels and an acceptance, by the above authorities, of the Naval Staff's recommendations for the
communications and weapons fits.
d. Investigation of the Patrol Craft operating cycles and craft/crew avail— abilities have indicated that 5 replacement vessels will be required.
e.
[Manning craft and shore support/DGMR and DFM to complete].
f. [ARM DFM to complete
te]
E. The procurement costs of the five vessels will be £28.75M (at Sept 73 price levels). This figure has been agreed in principle by the Hong Kong Government subject to endorsement of this NSR by MOD/DS4 to confirm
This expenditure [has been included] in LTC 1979, offset by appriation in aid
This is in accordance with the agreement reached between the UK and HK Government under the 1975 Defence Cost Agreement. MOD(N) pre-financing
of 75%.
[will/will not
GAR
DS4 to advise] be required.
h. Recent forecasts suggest that there is an accessible world market for
49 similar craft in the period to 1983. The RAP and DPs may have a requirement
for craft based on the same hull and machinery configurations as the proposed
vessels.
RECOMMENDATIONS
56. The Naval Projects Committee is invited to endorse NSR 7015 for five replace-
ment Patrol Craft to meet the Hong Kong requirement.
SE
17
SECRET/LOCSEN