J.C.S. Files
Memorandum by the United States Chiefs of Staff1
C.C.S. 270/7
Plans for the Use of the Azores
1. With reference to C.C.S. 270/4,2 the U.S. Chiefs of Staff present to the British Chiefs of Staff for their information a brief outline of operations in the Azores contemplated by the U.S.:
- a.
- The employment of anti-submarine aircraft initially in the coverage of all convoys on the Middle Atlantic lanes, and eventually for patrol around the Azores as necessary to obtain effective anti-submarine aircraft coverage of the Middle Atlantic.
- b.
- The employment initially of not to exceed two naval support groups from the Azores bases in anti-submarine operations on Middle Atlantic convoy routes; to be subsequently expanded should adjustment of convoy routes dictate.
- c.
- Operations of air transport service and ferry delivery service to the United Kingdom, the Mediterranean areas, India and China.
2. It is estimated that the above proposed operations will require the following facilities:
- a.
- For U.S. Naval surface craft: San Miguel Island. One operating and supply base at Ponta Delgada.
- b.
- For U.S. Naval aircraft:
- (1)
- Fayal Island. One seaplane base at Horta, with, sufficient facilities to accommodate 6 ASW seaplanes, and 6 NATS seaplanes.
- (2)
- San Miguel Island. One landplane base with three 6,000 ft. runways, and facilities for 12 VLR landplanes and 1 group (approximately 30) of CVE aircraft, capable of expansion to provide for 4 squadrons of VLR aircraft.
- c.
- For U.S. Army Air Force aircraft.
- (1)
- Terceira Island. One landplane base at Lagens Field with two 7,000 ft. runways for air transport and ferry operations, and accommodations for 3,500 personnel.
- (2)
- Flores Island. One landplane base with two 7,000 ft. runways for air transport and ferry operations. If the terrain of Flores Island does not permit adequate air base construction, the base may be placed [Page 1294] on Santa Maria Island. Housing facilities to be provided to accommodate 3,300 personnel.
- d.
- Existing cable systems and communications facilities essential to the operations of U.S. forces based on and operating through the Azores and to the operations of U.S. forces in the North African and European theaters of operations.
3. Ultimate U.S. forces for which accommodations will be required are estimated to amount to:
| U.S. Army | 6800 |
| U.S. Navy | 1400 |
4. The U.S. Chiefs of Staff plan preliminary preparations at this time in order that these facilities can be established in the Azores at the earliest practicable date.