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not possible to make any definite proposals for the addition of new squadrons in the Middle East without a very thorough examination of all the implications. involved. The Air Staff regard the two foregoing measures-re-equipment and expansion by increasing the first-line strength of the existing squadrons--as the only practicable means at their disposal for an immediate strengthening of the air forces in the Middle East. They are, however, already investigating the possibility of raising three new fighter squadrons in the near future, using certain existing fighter flights and improvised units as cadres upon which to build. They hope to gain some valuable assistance in this direction from the offer of the South African authorities to release pilots, which has recently been made by General Smuts.
11. Apart from these additional squadrons, the total reinforcements which it is hoped to despatch under the foregoing proposals amount to the equivalent of about six squadrons, equipped with aircraft of superior fighting value to the majority of those now in the Middle East. It must be understood, however, that this programme cannot, owing to shipping and other difficulties, be realised immediately, and its completion must be a matter of some time.
(Signed) C. L. N. NEWALL.
Air Ministry, S.W. 1,
October 12, 1940.
(TH
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