TNAG-1939-FCO40-2765-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 31

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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.

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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 is also to review the minimum contingency force of Scout helicopters, currently identified as 6 aircraft in the light of the revised Concept of Operations. This particular assessment, together with recommendations concerning the management of Scouts in Hong Kong to guarantee short notice availability of this minimum contingency force may be deferred until 1 November 1989 if

required, in order to derive information from the IRR Scout Trial (paragraph 28 refers).

NAVAL ASPECTS

32. 1988 Withdrawals and Implications. CDS 7/87 envisaged MARPOL deploying 2 new SC launches in 1987 and achieving a

COS53.4.15

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