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Naval.
An aircraft carrier for fighter protection until R.A.F. fighter aircraft can operate from the shore.
50
N.B. This would not be required in the event of a force landing in Northern Ireland.
Two cruisers and a division of destroyers to support army units at least until their own artillery can be brought into action.
Air.
6.
N.B.
One fighter squadron, One flight.
Army Co-operation Squadron.
In the event of a landing in Northern Ireland these would automatically be available based on existing ground
organisations.
Estimated strength of the whole force 16,000 men
and 3,500 vehicles and guns.
Shipping Requirements.
7.
Personnel Vehicles
Store, ammunition
& petrol ships
12/16 small ships. 17/20 M.T. ships, As required.
To move the above force three or possibly ty to six fast and slow convoys may be required depending on the facilities at the ports of disembarkation.
Ports of Embarkation.
8.
Possible ports of embarkation are:
(a) Clyde.
(b) Merscy.
(c) Bristol Channel.
Of these the Mersey is the least suitable owing to difficulties of navigation, susceptibility to enemy mining and essential commercial requirements of the country.
9.
The Clyde is recommended in preference to the Bristol Channel for the following reasons:
(a) East of assembly and shipping and escorts. (b) Relative security from air attack.
On the other hand the Bristol Channel is one day's steaming nearer the ports of Southern Ireland.
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