TNAG-1937-FCO40-2763-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 69

C.

Helicopter Forces.

SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

Currently, the garrison requires the capability

to mount a simultaneous helilift of half an infantry company; this calls

for 6 Wessex. The garrison's LH support requirements call for 6 Scouts.

To guarantee provision of these helicopters Hong Kong has 8 of each type.

CDS 7/87 envisaged a reduction to an establishment of 6 of each type in

1989, as the HKGFSD's capability expanded. CDS 7/87 also envisaged a

further reduction to a minimum of 4 Wessex, to mount a simultaneous platoon

lift, and 4 (later 3) Scouts for LH duties, after about 1993, once the

HKGFSD was able to support the RHKP in fulfilling transferred military

tasks. Four Wessex and 3 Scouts was seen as the minimum helicopter force

required by the garrison at the time of final withdrawal; the rationale is

provided at Annex B.

7

SECRET UK EYES A LOCSEN

ROW 113 (HONG)

murgery part the