SECRET
UK EYES A
LOCSEN
garrison's tasks, in about 1993. To guarantee this capability a minimum force of 4 AE and 2 IUR Wessex was approved. In addition, as a minimum, an operational contingency force of 4 Scouts was also approved by CDS 7/87 for that period following the transfer of border
responsibility until such time as the garrison reduces to its minimum force level - after which event a contingency force of 3 Scouts is prescribed. As indicated previously, the rationale for these force levels is addressed in greater
detail at Annex B. There is no justification for amendment
of this policy direction at this stage, but the future needs will be addressed by the study discussed in paragraph 31
below.
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30. Helicopter Reinforcement Planning. The reduced aircrew availability associated with the AE reductions proposed above could limit the ability to operate the Wessex and Scout helicopters particularly over an extended period in a contingency situation. To resolve this difficulty, it will be necessary either to adjust the in-theatre aircrew ratios
or to have reserve crews available in the UK to be flown out as reinforcements if required; the latter option is likely to be the more economic and, particularly in the case of the LH, to be the more practicable solution, given that the likely reinforcing Brigade (5 AB Bde) continues to operate Scouts. This aspect is to be addressed by the study discussed in the following paragraph.
31. HQBFHK 1989 Helicopter Study. CDS 7/87 commissioned a study to determine the future helicopter support concept to be completed by mid-1989. This study was to be originated by CBF Hong Kong and sponsored by D Cts ROW; inputs by DASD, D Air Off and DAAC are required. The provision has assumed greater importance in view of the
COS49.6-17
20 LOCSEN
UK EYES A
SECRET