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Strategic Points,

17.

The strategic points are:-

(1) Horta (Fayal)

(ii)

Ponta Delgada (San Miguel)

(iii)

Terceira

Good small harbour, seaplane station (Atlantic Clipper calls). Potential base for U-boats and raiders. Important cable station.

Good small harbour and seaplane station.

Potential landing grounds.

Size and population,

18. The group consist of six main islands spread in an east to west direction, over some 300 miles.

Fayal is about 10 miles square with a population of

over 25,000.

San Miguel is a longish island about 40 miles by 10 with

a population of over 150,000.

The islands are fertile and well watered.

Defence Forces.

19.

At Horta it is reported that two 21 c.m, guns from an old battleship have been mounted. At Ponta

Delgada there are two 15 c.m. guns with a range of 12,000 yards, The total Portuguese garrison in the group is two battalions.

There are 50 Germans on the island of Fayal consisting of cable staff and crews of two laid up merchant ships.

Plan.

There is one German merchant ship at Ponta Delgada.

20.

Owing to the scarcity of good beaches and landing places, and the prevalence of heavy ocean swell, it may be necessary to make frontal assaults on the harbours themselves where the opposition will be at its strongest. In view of this possibility, strong naval covering fire will be necessary. Therefore we consider that we should first concentrate on Fayal and, subsequently using that island as a base, capture San Miguel, leaving Terceira to be dealt with later as necessary.

Forces required.

21.

Army

Naval

Air

One infantry brigade, Field Company, Field

Ambulance.

One battleship to neutralize the batteries and

two destroyers to provide close covering fire.

Reconnaissance aircraft (one flight of

obsolete type) to be added to the garrison after capture for watching the island.

Shipping Two liners, store and M.T. ships as required.

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