SECRET UK EYES A
LOCSEN
and financial cost than a UE of 8 Scouts, it is proposed that the former force level be formally adopted by end-1989. If this is not proven, it is proposed that the current force level of 8 UE Scouts be reinstated by end 1989, subject to the recommendations of the HQBFHK Helicopter Study Scout Force level analysis (discussed at paragraph 31) and to amendment of LTC planning parameters, which will need revision to support either solution.
29.
Wessex and Scout Force Levels Post RHKP Border
Take-Over. CDS 7/87 prescribed a minimum availability of a contingency force of 4 Wessex - to conduct a simultaneous platoon lift - after the assumption by the RHKP of responsibility for the whole border, and the majority of the 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.
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
COS53.4.15
19 LOCSEN
UK EYES A
SECRET
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