TNAG-1638-FCO40-2282-Future-of-Hong-Kong-withdrawal-of-the-British-garrison-1987 — Page 40

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to rely entirely on HKG AW support.

It is considered that the

necessary experience would only be available if helicopter crews were trained and dedicated full time to the military task or had recent experience of the military helicopter support

role. Further details of the HKGAW expansion plan are at

Appendix 3 to Annex B.

FUTURE MILITARY HELICOPTER FORCE

60. As a first stage, and subject to further study of the optimum mix of aircraft types, the military helicopter force should be reduced to 6 Wessex and 6 Scouts when the first 2 Nls are

operational in 1989. Once the RHKP have assumed all the military tasks (about 1993) the garrison's half company IS lift requirement

could be reduced to a simultaneous lift of a single platoon to

meet any unforeseen contingencies IS, border/flank deployments, et al and this would require 4 Wessex. To provide the necessary light helicopter support (e.g. command, control and communication, reconnaissance and observation duties) 4 Scouts will be required until such time as the Sovereign Force reduces to a single battalion the ultimate intention when 3 Scouts would be

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adequate. Amplification of these helicopter force level figures

is at Annex F.

AREAS FOR FURTHER STUDY

61. A number of further studies are required before firm recommendations can be made concerning the exact numbers of aircraft necessary to guarantee short notice availability of 4 Wessex and 4 or 3 Scouts. These studies, which will need to reflect the age of the Wessex and Scout fleets, are indicated

below:

a.

The Sovereign Force's helicopter support and training

requirements.

b.

The feasibility of forming a joint RAF/Army helicopter

squadron.

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