TNAG-1941-FCO40-2767-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 104

SECRET UK EYES A

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involve joint-Service elements, capabilities and force packages are considered in broad terms of sea, land and air, since joint force-mixes will be largely scenario-dependent.

37.

However, the unpredictability of crises 00A will

emphasize the importance of developing an agreed body of national joint-service doctrine to facilitate rapid and effective military responses where they are appropriate, and

to enhance the flexibility of the UK's armed forces. Such

doctrine should be compatible, where relevant, with that of

NATO. To build upon this doctrinal foundation it will be

necessary that units and HQ staffs should be trained jointly

in its use, and that it should be tested regularly in

exercises.

38. Constraints. Forces will continue to be' trained and

equipped primarily in a NATO context, and their equipment will

sometimes reach the limits of its tolerance in the climatic

extremes in which it may have to function 0OA. As noted earlier, in terms of sustainability the UK will need to avoid

prolonged high-intensity operations. There are currently deficiencies in certain categories of munitions against the

30-day combat requirement, and if not remedied fighting at

limited war rates would probably result in a draw-down of

stocks provided for NATO. Most British units will continue to

be based in or around the UK or Continental Europe, which will

stress the importance of speed, range and flexibility when reacting to distant emergencies.

39.

Availability of Forces. The priority accorded to NATO,

and the financial constraints within which the UK's armed

forces will have to operate, are likely to perpetuate the

system of "double-earmarking" of forces which might be

required for use OOA. Thus, in a period of NATO/WP tension

they would not be available for deployment elsewhere.

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UK EYES A SECRET