AERIAL DEFENCE.

Waikato Times, Volume 96, Issue 15356, 3 October 1923, Page 5

AERIAL DEFENCE.

A BRITISH SCHEME.

first Line eoo aeroplanes.

SAME NUMBER IN RESERVE. Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn. LONDON, October 1. The Dally Chronicle states that plans for the aerial defence of Britain, with from 500 to 000 aeroplanes as the first line and a similar number in reserve, are nearing completion. , The scheme provides for the establishment of strategic bases at Hawkinge, in Kent, Spltllegate, in Lincolnshire, and Bircham Newton, in Norfolk, which will accommodate large numbers of machines and ensure adequate protection against attacks from the east, south and south-east. A coordinating base at Bromley will be London’s main inner defence. Training schools will be inaugurated giving special .attention to night flying, cooperation with anti-aircraft gunners', and searchlight batteries. A new monoplane is being designed which can be used commercially in peace time, but is capable of rapid conversion during war time. It would carry from six to eight passengers, and when converted it will be capable of bombing and reconnaissance activities. It has a speed of 140 miles an hour. Eight flying boats are being bu'lt. These will be capable of cruising over water on their own power, and carrying a crew of seven and five machineguns. Some will be fitted with wings and also a cockpit, enabling firing in all directions. It is 1 believed, when the plans are carried out, -that Britain will be the best air-equipped nation in the world.