Page 104
Page 104
89
Defence Forces.
5.
The two harbours of La Luz and Santa Cruz are strongly defended:-
La Luz. 17 batteries ranging from 5.9 in. to 10 in.
totalling some 48 guns.
Santa Cruz.
14 batteries ranging from 5.9 in. to 10 in.
totalling some 33 guns in all.
A large number of the above are believed to
be of obsolete type, although modernization is known to have taken place in some of the batteries.
Latest reports show the garrison of the islands to be:-
2 infantry brigades
3 independent battalions
(probably M.G. units)
1 Artillery group.
1 Anti Aircraft Auxiliary group
1 Regiment Moroccon Cavalry
2 Coast Defence Artillery Regiments
6 3,81 bomber aircraft.
These units are not believed to be fully equipped.
Reports show that the garrisons of these islands are being increased but extent of these reinforcements is not at present known, Warlike stores have been sent there recently.
Plan recommended.
Õ
In the circumstances envisaged (e.g. Spain hostile), our commitments will be too great for us to capture both the Grand Canary and Tenerife Islands at the same time. Therefore the plan should, in the first instance, be only for the capture of Grand Canary, If we succeed in this operation the aerodrome and harbour would provide us with a base for operations against Tenerife. It is even possible that Tenerife might capitulate.
7.
A direct assault on La Luz, a defended port, would necessitate a major combined operation at considerable risk. The capture of the port is however an early necessity in order to enable us to land heavy anti-aircraft guns and stores before aircraft can be operated from the aerodrome. Until this is achieved it will be necessary to rely on air support from a Carrier. The best alternative to a direct assault on La Luz appears to be to effect a landing on the Gando peninsula estimated.
and it is on this that the forces required have been
Forces required.
8.
Army
- infantry brigades, of which one might be
Royal Marines, each with Field Ambulance
and Field Company.
One Field battery (25 pdr.)
One Light A.A. battery.
At least one heavy A.A. battery.
kow
-2-
Page 104
Page 104
Page 104
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.