CO_968_580_DEFENCE_OF_HONG_KONG_1957_1959 — Page 73

TOP SECRET

8

J

Page 73

Hong Kong it is unlikely that the CCAF, who are familiar with

the Chinese Nationalist leaflet raids, would miss the

opportunity of dropping large quantities of leaflets on the

Chinese population, perhaps announcing the 'Day of Liberation'

and giving orders and instructions to sympathisers and the

population in general.

6.

The effect in Malaya of Voice Broadcasts from slow

flying aircraft must be known to the CCAF. It is considered

that the use of voice aircraft over the densely populated parts

of Hong Kong, backed by powerful demonstrations at low level by

large formations of Chinese bombers and fighters, would

probably demoralise the Chinese population.

There is little

that could be done to prevent this, assuming the enemy had

complete air supremacy.

Timing

7

A preplanned attack would probably be mounted during

good flying weather. The best flying weather normally occurs

between October and December.

Airfields

8.

There are 22 airfields within 300 miles of Hong Kong,

capable of supporting jet operations, and a further 18 airfields

suitable at present only for Piston-engined aircraft.

Forces to be Used

90

It is considered to be unwise to forecast the

numbers of aircraft which might be used having regard to the

known mobility of the CCAF. However, it is not thought that

less than 300 jet fighter aircraft will be stationed in South

China in the period under review.

Capability

10.

The Jet Light Bombers would be capable of accurate

daylight bombing and torpedo attacks, whilst the Jet Fighters

would be capable of maintaining air supremacy over the area and

of providing very strong offensive air support of ground

operations.

Page 73

TOP SECRET

Page 73 7Conclusion