c. Naval forces.
        (1) Covering force (IONIAN SEA). 
              4 Battleships 
              2 Carriers 
              8 Cruisers
            20 Destroyers
 
         (2) Naval attack force.
 
               (a) Escort group. 
                    40 PC's and SC's 
                    18 Destroyers
 
          (b) Fire support group.
              Fire support comparable to that which could be 
     provided by:
 
              20 Destroyers
              l0 Cruisers (l0,000 ton U.S. type)
 
               (c) Air support group. 
                   4 Carriers 
                   4 Cruisers
                 12 Destroyers
 
          (d) Control, salvage, and minesweeper group.
             Miscellaneous vessels as required.
 
12. Political and economic estimate.
     a. Political.
              The DODECANESE ISLANDS are governed by an Italian 
governor. Practically all of the people are of Greek birth 
although they are now Italian subjects. There is some dis-
satisfaction with Italian administration.
 
              The Greeks feel that they have a legitimate claim on 
both the islands and the population. TURKEY is also interested 
in the DODECANESE because they were formerly Turkish territory. 
It is doubtful that there would be much aid given an invading
force by the population.
 
 
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