ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the shift of government in October 1964, after which the Ministries needed to be settled. It examines the greater strategic developments: the Soviet Navy was rising, and the challenges in the East of Suez region did not diminish. The 'value for money' issue discussed in the chapter made a strong case for 'alternative solutions', be it American carriers, refitting the old or a shift to rely on land-based air power for maritime strikes or protection of shipping. Land-based air forces would be required to support the maritime forces with air defence. The Royal Air Force (RAF) strongly argued that the new Comet maritime long-range aircraft would effectively be able to fill this role, and even take on more duties. In the summer of 1965, Secretary of State for Defence Denis Healey asked for a re-examination of the feasibility of the use of land-based aircraft instead of carrier-based aircraft in maritime roles.
