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(a) There are 11 good air bases in Greece, 5 of which are in the Salonika area.
Turkey has some good aerodromes in Thrace and more are being surveyed in Anatolia.
(b) The air defence of Salonika by Fighter aircraft can only be assured by means of standing pat- rols especially if air attacks are expected from the direction of Bulgaria,
It is estimated that a minimum of 60 Fighter aircraft - that is, two "groupes" and one squadron - would be required for this purpose.
(a) This estimate of Greek aerodromes ap ears optimistic. British know of only two in the neighbourhood of Salonika which the British consider would not be adequate for the necessary number of defending aircraft.
(b) and (c) Agreed. British con- ception at present is to use air units from Middle East in Thrace and Anatolia in case of an attack by Germany and also in Iraq if Russia is concerned. Additional British units might be made avail- able for Salonika if the French are prepared to release them from France.
(c) In the event of a combined German and and Bulgarian attack in the Balkans action by Bomber aircraft against enemy aerodromes, communications and rear areas would be of particular importance.
Our requirements would
be fully met by the provision of 10 Bomber 51 groupes.
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(b) & (c) The French Air Staff's plans are to despatch to the Balkans:
In any event, as representing the Air Component of the Expeditionary Force: e. 1 Bomber "Groupe" 1 Reconnaissance
b.
"Groupe"
c. 1 Fighter "1 c. 1 Obscrvation
These forces are now in Syria and will have been totally re- equipped by 31st March If required, in the event of a combined attack by Germany and Bulgaria
2. 4 Bomber "Groupes" (Now being re-equipped in North Africa.) b. 1 Fighter "Groupe" (from France,)
The British Forces which might be avail- able for the Balkans would be:
Z Fighter Squadrons. 5 Bomber Squadrons. 1 A.C. Squadron.
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