AIR DEFENCE.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 2763, 3 October 1923, Page 5

AIR DEFENCE.

PLAN BEING COMPLETED.

STRATEGIC BASES IN SOUTH OF ENGLAND.

1000 PLANES IN COMMISSION,

[By Electric Cable—Copyright.]

[Aust. and N.Z. Cable Association.] (Received Tuesday, 7 p.m.)

LONDON, Oct. 1

The “Dally Chronicle” states that plans for the aerial defence of Britain, with 500 ta 600 aeroplanes as a first lino, and a similar number in reserve, are nearing completion. The scheme provides for the establishment- of strategic bases at Hawkinge, in Kent, Spittlegato, in Lincolnshire, and Bir. chain Newton, in Norfolk, which will accommodate large numbers of machines and ensure adequate protection against attacks from the east, south, and south-east. A co-ordina-ting base at Bromley will be London’s main inner defence. Training schools will be inaugurated, giving special attention to night flying, co-operation with anti-aircraft gunners, and searchlight batteries, A new monoplane is being designed which can bo used commercially in peace time. It is capable of rapid conversion during war-time. It would carry six to eight passengers, and when converted would be capable of bombing and reconaissauce, with a speed of HO miles per hour. Eight flying boats of 20,000 to 30,000 pounds, are being built, capable of cruising over water on their own power, carrying a crew of seven, and five machine guns. Some will be fitted with wings, also a cockpit, enabling firing in all directions. It is believed, when the plans are carried out, Bri. tain will bo the best air-equipped nation in the world.