TNAG-1938-FCO40-2764-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 102

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prescribed. As indicated previously, the rationale for these force levels is

addressed in greater detail at Annex B. There is no justification for amendment

of this policy direction at this stage, but the future needs will be addressed

by the study discussed in paragraph 31 below.

30. Helicopter Reinforcement Planning. The reduced aircrew availability asso-

ciated with the AE reductions proposed above could limit the ability to operate

the Wessex and Scout helicopters - particularly over an extended period in a

contingency situation. To resolve this difficulty, it will be necessary either

to adjust the in-theatre aircrew ratios or to have reserve crews available in

the UK to be flown out as reinforcements if required; the latter option is

likely to be the more economic and, particularly in the case of the LH, to be

the more practicable solution, given that the likely reinforcing Brigade (5 AB

Bde) continues 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

ROW 113 (HONG)

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