TOP SECRET
DP Note 27/67(Concluded)
15. Fighter Aircraft. While fighter aircraft are deployed in the theatre, and are not otherwise committed, it should be possible to provide detachments to Hong Kong from time to time. Ferry limitations, imposed by range and en route airfield facilities, suggest that Hunters would be the most appropriate aircraft to undertake this task, until Phantoms. are available in the Theatre. The operational effectiveness. of fighters in Hong Kong is influenced by local limitations in the control and reporting facilities; operational shortcomings of Kai Tak airfield; limitations imposed by weather and terrain; and the lack of a diversion airfield. The military value of such detachments is therefore questionable. However, there may be overriding political reasons for deploying fighters to Hong Kong.
16. Support at Kai Tak Airfield. Permanent deployment of helicopters and fighter aircraft at Kai Tak would require an increase in Royal Air Force supporting elements at the airfield.
COMMAND ORGANISATION
17. We have proposed (10) that the Commander-in-Chief's recommend- ation that he should relinquish responsibility for Hong Kong at the same time as Commander Far East Land Forces should be agreed.
Note: 10
DP 81/67(Final
1
(Signed)
F.H.M. P.D. D.W.
W.
4
S
TOP SECRET
RU SHMORE TATTON-BROWN
FRASER KENT
Page 75Page 76
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.