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An air-borne expedition would probably be limited to about 1,000 men, the scale being limited by the need to conserve resources for the main attack on Great Britain.
The enemy's plan would include raising the I.R.A. of which there are believed to be some 2,000 members, all well armed,
Forces available in Ireland.
30
We should not rely upon the Eire forces to put up any effective resistance.
British troops in Northern Ireland: -
53rd Division.
61st Division less R.A., R. E., etc.
1 Home Defence battalion (another is being raised).
4 infantry training centres (each over 1,200 strong). Fife and Forfar Yeomanry (mechanised cavalry).
Irish Horse (about 15 armoured cars).
7 3.7" A.A. guns.
Belfast coast defences.
Strengths:-
53rd Division 61st Division
14,000 7,000
61st Division is to relieve 53rd Division of defence duties in Northern Ireland, thus leaving 53rd Division free for operations in Eire. This division is being placed o... fully motorised basis for the task; complete in 8 to 10 days' time,
the process will be
Air forces in Northern Irelands-
2 squadrons of Battles.
-2
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