16.
17.
18.
x5
essential, the ground extended by continuing the reclamation to the eastward; and a slipway added for working seaplanes. It will then form an almost ideal aerodrome, if its alleged malarial tendency can be eradicated.
If the arguments in para.12 are held to be incorrect, and no shore air base is permitted, then it is suggested that an aircraft carrier should be attached to the China Squadron, with the intention that her main function should be to assist in the defence of Hongkong if threatened. This would constitute an addition to the China Squadron, as opposed to the coast defences of Hongkong, and,as such,is not debarred by the Washington Agreement.
All carriers fitted with a flying deck would be required for work with the fleet, and none would be spared to be locked up in Hongkong. The ARK ROYAL, however, except that she is small, would be suitable. It is understood that she can accommodate about 9 aeroplanes, and it is suggested that in addition to three seaplanes (attached to the ARK ROYAL) should be stowed and worked from the slipway in the RN.Yard Kowloon. All machines would be based on the ARK ROYAL, which would also provide all workshops, etc., necessary.
It is proposed that this force should
comprise-
3 Reconnaissance machines).
6 Fighters ( land
3 Torpedo planes
It is considered that the fighters shoul
be land machines, owing to their marked
superiority in performance over fighter seaplanes.
The torpedo planes should be land machines unless the torpedo seaplanes, now understood to be under trial, are very satisfactory.
This arrangement of a ship carrying land machines will complicate her peace exercising, and necessitate the use of a landing ground, with lighters and tugs for transport; but appears unavoidable.
If the establishment of an airbase is held to be out of the question, and an aircraft carrier cannot be provided, then the most that can be done appears to be to base 3 to 6 seaplanes on Kowloon slipway, using existing dockyard facilities for repairs. This is not likely to be an efficient arrangement.
It is considered that these machines should be reconnaisance seaplanes for reconnaissanee and co-operation with the military. A composite force of this small size would have little offensive value.
Suggested Reserve of Pilots.
It is suggested that advantage should be taken of the presence of ex-officers of R.A.F., R.F.C., and R.N.A.S. in the Colony to form a reserve capable, with three or four weeks training per annum, of flying reserve machines in an emergency. Probably 8 to 12 pilots could be obtained by this means,
The
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