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to operate Scouts. This aspect is to be addressed by the study discussed in the

following paragraph.

31. HQBFHK 1989 Helicopter Study. CDS 7/87 commissioned a study to determine

the future helicopter support concept - to be completed by mid 1989. This study

was to be originated by CBF Hong Kong and sponsored by D Cts ROW; inputs by

DASD, D Air Off and DAAC are required. The provision has assumed greater

importance in view of the revised Concept of Operations, which will place

greater emphasis on reserve force mobility. The HQBFHK study should define the

peacetime helicopter flying tasks and the operational contingency requirements

and recommend the appropriate AE and IUR ratios and the optimum mix of Wessex

and Scouts for the rundown period post 1989. The study should also address

the helicopter crewing issues associated with reinforcement planning described

in the previous paragraph. The study should be initiated as soon as the

requirements of the revised Concept of Operations are finalised.

NAVAL ASPECTS

32.

1988 Withdrawals and Implications.

CDS 7/87 envisaged MARPOL deploying 2

new SC launches in 1987 and achieving a land-based fast pursuit craft (FPC)

capability in early 1988. On this basis, plans were made to withdraw 2 RN PC

and 3 Raiding Squadron Royal Marines (3RSRM) in early 1988. In the event,

although the 2 MARPOL SC launches were operational by early 1988,

delayed the

withdrawal of the first 2 HKPC until Jul 88. 3 RSRM was also withdrawn in

Jul 88 even though MARPOL had not by then (and still have not) achieved an

operational FPC capability. The programme to enable MARPOL to combat Il and

ROW 113 (HONG)

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