(b)
(c)
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Shanghai for the CCN.
It is estimated that
at least one of these ships is at present undergoing sea trials, and that all should be operational by the middle of 1957.
(11) Motor Torpedo Boats
It is estimated that the MTB strength of the CCN Northern Fleet will be in reased by about 12 boats per year under the present building programme believed to be in progress. It is not yet known whether these are of a now design or not.
(iii) Amphibious Vessels
There is evidence that a now construction programme for craft of the LCT type is in progress, though the total number to be built is probably not more than 20.
(iv) L.C.M./L.C.V.P.
A number of reports have indicated that this type of craft is currently under construction in both Shanghai and Dairon. However, the numbers involved is difficult to estimate, but it is not considered to excood 50 per year.
Gift or Loan from Soviet Navy
In addition to the new construction programme outlined above the possibility of gift or loan of vessels from the USSR must be borne in mind With the steady flow of new Naval Vessels (from cruisers downwards) into the Soviet Navy from their shipyards, it is always a possibility that some of their older ships may be transferred to the CCN.
Estimated Total by End of 1958
However, due to the inherent difficulties of expansion of a young naval force, the total additional ships and craft the CCN is likely to be able to absorb and operate up to the end of 1958 is considered to be:-
4 Destroyers
6 Frigates
2 Occan Patrol Submarinos
24 M.T.B.s
4 Occan Minesweepers
30 Major Amphibious Vessels.
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