PERMANENT GARRISONS
Gibraltar
The UK is committed to defend Gibraltar under the latter's (1969) constitution. The main (non-Soviet) threat has traditionally been from Spain. But the prospect of military action against Gibraltar by Spain is now remote. UK plans for Gibraltar's defence therefore rely upon reinforcement from the UK in times of tension. The RN for example keeps a frigate in UK waters ready to be in Gibraltar within 72 hours (known as the "Gibraltar Guardship").
Because of its strategic position Gibraltar is, however, both a UK and NATO base. Its main functions are:
(i) as a reprovisioning base for UK and NATO ships;
(ii) as a communications station; and
(iii) as an intelligence and monitoring station.
FORCE LEVELS
-
Navy: The Gibraltar squadron has 2 ships; the Gibraltar Lynx Flight; one Lynx helicopter. Extensive berthing areas, including for nuclear subs.
Army: The Gibraltar Regiment comprising 3 rifle companies and 1 territorial company all locally recruited.
An engineering troop; A signals troop;
A company of Gibraltar services
police.
RAF: An airfield (partly used by civilian flights) capable of operating most UK and NATO aircraft.
Triservice: Major ammunition and fuel depts as well as a hospital and power generating equipment are located inside the Rock.
PROPOSED CHANGES
The
No plans for cuts as a direct result of Options for Change. But further significant cutbacks are likely as a result of the tighter budgetary management generally. present base commander has identified potential cuts up to 30% of the current complement over the next 5 years. RAF might well withdraw from operating the airfield.
The
There are plans to extend the timescale of the availability of the Guardship or possibly dispose with the commitment altogether.
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