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to rely entirely on HKG AW support.
It is considered that the
necessary experience would only be available if helicopter crews were trained and dedicated full time to the military task or had recent experience of the military helicopter support
role. Further details of the HKGAW expansion plan are at
Appendix 3 to Annex B.
FUTURE MILITARY HELICOPTER FORCE
60. As a first stage, and subject to further study of the optimum mix of aircraft types, the military helicopter force should be reduced to 6 Wessex and 6 Scouts when the first 2 Nls are
operational in 1989. Once the RHKP have assumed all the military tasks (about 1993) the garrison's half company IS lift requirement
could be reduced to a simultaneous lift of a single platoon to
meet any unforeseen contingencies IS, border/flank deployments, et al and this would require 4 Wessex. To provide the necessary light helicopter support (e.g. command, control and communication, reconnaissance and observation duties) 4 Scouts will be required until such time as the Sovereign Force reduces to a single battalion the ultimate intention when 3 Scouts would be
-
-
adequate. Amplification of these helicopter force level figures
is at Annex F.
AREAS FOR FURTHER STUDY
61. A number of further studies are required before firm recommendations can be made concerning the exact numbers of aircraft necessary to guarantee short notice availability of 4 Wessex and 4 or 3 Scouts. These studies, which will need to reflect the age of the Wessex and Scout fleets, are indicated
below:
a.
The Sovereign Force's helicopter support and training
requirements.
b.
The feasibility of forming a joint RAF/Army helicopter
squadron.
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